Those who bear marks on their skin are doomed to a life of slavery. Lexil has seven.
Sold into servitude, Lexil must deal with brutal punishments, back-breaking labor, and the loss of every freedom. When a young child she has befriended faces a horrible fate, Lexil must intervene to protect her, no matter what the risk. With the help of a boy named Finn, the trio flee into the Wastelands. There, they must evade those who hunt them while trying to survive a barren landscape. Lexil must face challenges she's never imagined existed, all while learning what it means to truly be reborn.
The Red Queen meets The Hunger Games in this stunning new release. Buy REBORN now to find out if being branded a reborn is a myth, a curse... or a destiny.
Jenna Greene is a writer, podcaster, teacher, clumsy dancer, dragonboat coach, and semi-professional napper. She's also the co-host of "Quill and Ink: A Podcast for Book Lovers" with Miranda Oh.
Reborn is a name given to those who have lived before and are expected to serve those who have been born once. And this is the case that Lexil and some of her friends found themselves’ in before being sold to their new owners, who would do to them as it pleases.
Lexil and Ceena were sold to the same slave master named Donfair, who owned a plantation and used the reborn he owned as his workers, leaving them to heinous works even though they weren’t up to the task of such strenuous jobs.
The next interesting thing was when the writer introduced the new type, which was called the double-born, who were people whose parents gave birth to identical twins, in which the senior has to stay while the junior goes with the explanation that no parent deserves the same child twice. Then together, the reborn Lexil and the double-born Finn start the journey of rescuing Lexil’s little friend in the most intriguing and interesting way as they run to the wasteland to escape the danger that has fallen on them. This novel is fun-filled and promises to kill boredom.
‘We are such stuff as dreams are made on; and our little life Is rounded with a sleep.’ Shakespeare
Canadian author Jenna Greene teaches middle school in Alberta, Canada and so it is rather natural that her books to date are for young adults – especially in the age group that Jenna teaches.
For readers new to both the author and have not enjoyed her Imagine Series it will come as a fine surprise that here is an author who knows how to weave spells the old-fashioned way and yet make her topics both contemporary and fantasy projected. And to add to the sensitivity of this new book Jenna offers ‘This book is from my heart. Half of it was written before my mom passed away from cancer. The story was completed several months after she passed away.’
The contagious manner in which Jenna relates this strange fantasy is grounded in reality – a factor that makes the ‘other world’ and incredible creatures held in place She summarizes this interesting concept and plot as follows: ‘The marks on Lexil's skin state she is a Reborn - someone who has lived before. As such, she must toil in service to those who have only one chance at life. Sold at auction, she is fearful but accepting of her new life. Everything changes when she must save a young child from a fate worse than death. With the help of a new ally named Finn, she flees to the Wastelands. There she struggles to survive while discovering more about herself, the world, and what it truly means to be Reborn’
The writing is solid and definitely directed toward the younger set, but that is yet another reason why the book works well. If authors can conjure books that attract youngsters to read, then we must bow to them in thanks. Reading Jenna Greene results in that old urge to sit on a park bench and just gaze and chat about all the possible variations of ‘world’ there are/can be!
Those who bear marks on their skin are doomed to a life of slavery. Lexil has seven.
Sold into servitude, Lexil must deal with brutal punishments, back-breaking labor, and the loss of every freedom. When a young child she has befriended faces a horrible fate, Lexil must intervene to protect her, no matter what the risk. With the help of a boy named Finn, the trio flee into the Wastelands. There, they must evade those who hunt them while trying to survive a barren landscape. Lexil must face challenges she's never imagined existed, all while learning what it means to truly be reborn.
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Reborn, the first book in the Reborn Marks series by Jenna Greene, is a masterfully crafted story that engages the reader from the very beginning. As soon as I started reading the first chapter, I was immediately drawn into the emotional intensity of the story. The characters are so well-developed that it was impossible not to feel for them and their struggles.
As the story progressed, I found myself becoming more and more invested in the journey of the main character, Lexii. The author's worldbuilding skills are truly incredible, as she creates a vivid and intricate world that is both complex and believable. I was particularly impressed by how the author balances both emotions and plot, keeping me engaged throughout the entire book.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed reading Reborn and cannot wait to read the next book in the series. Jenna Greene is a truly talented writer, and I look forward to seeing what she has in store for us next. If you are looking for a gripping and emotionally charged book that will keep you on the edge of your seat, then I highly recommend Reborn.
The author initially immerses you into a world of hardship and lost hope, a cruel society dependent on facial marks. Then a chance is given and we follow their journey and struggle and forging hope for something better. A wonderful story, where the reader is invested in the characters plight. Highly recommended.
I love reading Dystopian and so I was interested to see which direction this new author to me would go. The book was really enjoyable and I am glad i took a chance. I will be reading more of Jenna Greene's books in the future
This book I don’t even know how to describe. It was so amazing to read. The characters are absolutely amazing and the events are unexpected. Definitely was a journey to read. Very highly recommend to everyone.
This is a YA Fantasy book that follows the adventures of a teen girl named Lexil, who has been sold into slavery due to the marks on her skin that identify her as a Reborn, or someone who has lived multiple past lives according to her society’s mythology. In her case, Lexil’s marks appeared inordinately late in her life, so she had the unique opportunity to live relatively normally with a family and community that cared for and accepted her until the marks revealed themselves, marking her as “other” and branding her as an outcast, ostracized by those she thought she could trust.
Unlike most children, whose marks appear at birth or in their early years, sparing them attachment to those who would heartlessly forsake them for being different, Lexil had to cope with this rejection at a time in her life already full of pain and upheaval. This premise acts as a tidy parallel for the multi-layered adversities many young teens find themselves facing at that age when they begin to truly form their own independent identities only to find that the world doesn’t always embrace the “just be yourself” ideology in practice that it so often preaches.
As a character, Lexil rolls with the punches at first, uncertain about rocking the boat of the traditions that have always shaped her world even though she suffers greatly within their grip. But when she sees others being mistreated in this system, her inherently kind and protective nature leads her to intervene. No matter how hard she tries, she can’t suppress this instinct, and it leads her on an amazing journey seeking freedom, safety, understanding, truth, belonging and friendship.
It’s a coming-of-age story, but also a story about overcoming not only externally imposed adversity but the oppression that we internalize within ourselves. It’s about searching within yourself for strength that you were convinced you did not possess in order to help others and do what’s right. This book is ideal for YA readers of any age, and would be just as enjoyable for adults. It’s sharply, authentically written, rich with emotion, imagery, and imaginative world-building. The author does a superb job of bringing the characters to life and making you root for them as you follow them across dangerous lands. Highly recommended for all readers who enjoy YA fantasy.
"Reborn" by Jenna Greene is an enthralling journey through a post-apocalyptic world that will leave readers on the edge of their seats. In this gripping YA fiction, Lexil, a marked soul, faces a life of servitude and hardship, destined to serve those on their first lives. Jenna Greene weaves a tale of courage and determination as Lexil defies her fate to protect a friend and embarks on a perilous quest for freedom.
From the very start, readers are plunged into a world marked by harsh realities and unrelenting challenges. Lexil's friendship with a marked child becomes the catalyst for her rebellion against an unjust system. As she teams up with Finn and ventures into the treacherous Wastelands, the story takes on a thrilling dimension. The dichotomy between hunters and hunted, survival and sacrifice, paints a vivid backdrop against which Lexil's transformation unfolds.
Jenna Greene's storytelling prowess shines through as Lexil faces trials that push her to the limits of her strength and beliefs. The author's vivid descriptions of the dangerous landscapes and the visceral emotions of the characters pull readers into the heart of the narrative. Lexil's journey becomes a metaphorical exploration of identity and self-discovery as she unearths the truth about being "Reborn."
"Reborn" is a masterful blend of suspense, action, and introspection. Greene's ability to create a world that feels both fantastical and eerily familiar is a testament to her skill as a writer. Lexil's determination to challenge the status quo and seek the truth resonates with readers of all ages. In a tale where survival is paramount, the characters' choices reflect the enduring power of hope and the unbreakable spirit of the human heart.
With its engaging plot, well-crafted characters, and thought-provoking themes, "Reborn" stands as a captivating testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Jenna Greene's novel is a must-read for fans of apocalyptic fiction, as well as those who appreciate stories that delve into the depths of resilience and the quest for truth.
I loved this delightful YA Adventure. Lexil is a reborn who has seven marks on her skin, meaning she has lived seven lives. All reborns are sold into slavery to improve the lives of once-borns. Lexil is sold to a plantation owner where she is forced to work long days and punished for any missteps. There she makes friends with a few other reborns and a boy named Finn. While Finn is not a reborn, his living conditions are only slightly better than those who bear the marks. He is a double-born (twin) who works hard jobs for minimal pay. When Lexil finds out a her friend, a little four-year-old girl is in danger, she and Finn rush to escape the plantation and must venture through dangerous territory seeking a refuge that may not exist. I read this book in one night because I couldn't put it down. I loved the characters so much that I felt their pain along with them. I loved seeing how circumstance force Lexil to transform and evolve. I thought the pacing of this story was perfectly executed. My only wish is that the history of some of the other characters was delved into a bit further. For example, I would love to learn more about the history of some of the slaves on the plantation. Hopefully the next book will include more of their stories! Personally, I love the idea that my freckles could indicate the number of lives I've lived. I highly recommend it to YA readers of all ages who love perilous journeys, strong friendships, and dystopian worlds.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In this world it is divided between those that have one life and those that are marked and thought to be reborn. Those that are reborn are slaves for those that have only one life. Lexil was raised as a once born until the marks started showing up on her when she is a teenager unlike others that show marks when they are born or young kids. Lexil is torn from her life and sold into slavery. Not really understanding what is going on and how she should act mean Lexil goes along with everything thrown at her.
But then something happens and Lexil goes on the run with two other reborn’s from the plantation that she is sold to. They go hide in the unclaimed cities where they learn more about themselves and the different classes of this dystopian world. But Lexil learns more about herself and who she wants to become.
I really enjoyed this story. It has a darkness and sad events that drew me in and made me hope that Lexil would find a way out of her situation. I loved this world even though it was dark and there were tough moments to read. I really hope that there will be more to come from this world. It would be a great series.
This book quickly drew me in and left be frantically reading. I couldn’t wait to see what happened next and found that I had read the book in an entire afternoon. This is a great dystopian story and one I recommend checking out.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
I have never read anything by this author before, but I was totally drawn in by the premise and was hooked straightaway. I really enjoyed the whole book; from the characters to the world building to the plot lines. Lexil's, Finn's, and even Ceera's personalities were endearing and super easy for me to get invested in. I thought they all were portrayed with a depth and complexity that made me root for them and care about their progress. The world of reborns, once borns, and double borns, to wisps, shades, a stopover guide and river people, to the unclaimed cities and sought-after freedom, it all kept me entirely engrossed and turning pages (too late) into the night! I suspect there will be more installments to Lexil's story and I will look forward to reading them, if indeed there are. I think the connection between Lexil and Finn could definitely be solidified, as well as revisiting and developing the metaphysical elements of wisps and shades, and of course further exploring the world and characters that Lexil, Finn and Ceera left behind.... Regardless, I think Ms. Greene did a great job of weaving a complex and entertaining tale that wrapped up nicely, while still leaving herself plenty of room for expanding in the future if she chooses. And, like I said, I will absolutely check it out if she does!
First, I want to thank Jenna Green for providing me with this book so I may bring you this review.
Reborn by Jenna Green was a book that was totally outside the box and very unique. This book was way outside my normal comfort zone. However, I am so thankful that I gave it a chance because it was so fascinating.
The graphic artist needs to be commended for the unique cover. The cover was dark and eerie it is one of the aspects of the book that drew me in. Not to mention the storyline was completely different than anything I was ever used to reading before.
The beginning of the book really hooked me with young children who were called reborns being auctioned off as slaves. Children as young as 4 years old. This part of he book made for some interesting reading it also was very disturbing as well. However, I read I with an open mind.
The section about the double born was very interesting in how they were different than the reborn.
I always commend authors when they pick characters names whom are different and unique. In Reborn Jenna picked names that I never even heard of before. She choose names like Lexil, Ceera, Jix, Ainee, etc.
This book was dedicated to Jenna’s mom who left her too soon, to Olivia who came to heal the wound.
Jenna would like to acknowledge When Worlds Collide, for always giving her the opportunity to be creative.
A fantastic blend of fantasy and dystopian thriller, author Jennifer Greene has crafted an engaging world where the fight for freedom takes on a whole new meaning. Exploring a world where those born with marks on their bodies are known as Reborns, those who have lived past lives, and are considered property to serve the Once-Borns, this novel does an expert job of crafting wholly original mythology and a memorable cast of characters.
The author’s ability to blend a unique and creative new narrative with an important theme such as freedom and fighting against oppression makes this such an important read. The action and character growth are beautifully balanced with the world-building the author delves into, exploring how the fight for freedom comes from multiple sides, and there is often much more to the story than meets the eye.
The Verdict
A shocking, entertaining yet thoughtful dystopian fantasy, author Jennifer Greene’s “Reborn” is a must-read novel. Highly engaging and memorable, the author does a fantastic job of creating a great cast of characters, especially the protagonist and hero Lexil, as well as a wellspring of unique world mythology that readers will want to revisit over and over again. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy of this amazing read today!
This is the first book I have read by this author, and I loved it! The story is compelling, and the characters well rounded. Lexil - a 16 year old Reborn woman, now a slave on a plantation - faces unimaginable obstacles as she learns what she is truly capable of. Unable to stand idly by as her new young friend - four year old Ceera - is sold to a new master who will not be kind to the child. Lexil’s decision leads to a journey of growth and self-discovery, and a feeling of hope she has never known. Together with her friend Finn - a young man Double-born (a twin) - Lexil finds herself in a world she has never seen, and yet echoes in the recesses of her memory. The world the author created was vivid in my mind as I read. Without a whole lot of flowery descriptions, she weaves a clear picture of the setting - a tree farm worked by slaves collecting leaves in the branches; a forest, dark and ominous and foreboding; a warm, but strange hut seemingly in the middle of nowhere. The reader is cast into these places with ease as the story unfolds. I recommend this book to readers who enjoy alternate-world settings, and are looking for an adventure of self-discovery and budding friendships.
The Author did a great job in showing how people are labeled. As it was years ago, whites were Masters and blacks were slaves, here reborn were slaves and once born with money were Masters of their plantations. Bought and sold into slavery, Lexil befriended a 4 year old going to the same plantation as her. Walking for days with a rope tied around their necks, they finally made it. Made to climb trees and pick leaves for making medicine, Lexil found it difficult at first. She made a friend of Finn and he had a dream and when it came time for the 4 year old to be sold to a man who is going to, well it was time for change. This is when the adventure really started. Not only did they have to make it, they had to figure out their way, hid from men looking for them, look out for creatures and much more. I really liked this book! I feel high school and up would enjoy it as much as I did. Full of surprises, suspense, action, mystery and paranormal, you were kept wanting more as you turned each page. Awesome Book!
Reborn by Jenna Greene is the first book in The Reborn Marks series. Lexil is a one of the marked souls --- those souls that have lived a previous life and are doomed to serve those who are living their first life. She has always endured but when a marked child's life is in danger, she must fight to protect her. Guided by Finn, the only person she trusts, they flee to the dangerous Wastelands. To come out of it alive, she must master the knowledge of the reborn.
This is a wonderful book with a unique concept. The author examines a reality that is resonant, the world divided into servants and masters and how a young protagonist must endure a fate she never chose. The injustices experienced by the marked are intelligently and elaborately conveyed in this spellbinding tale and the world of Lexil is one that will inspire pathos in readers. The author breathes an enchanting world into existence. It is a superb execise of storytelling that occupies the space between the epic and adventure with powerful elements of the dystopian.
Reborn by Jenna Greene is a phenomenal story. A young girl is normal until she starts showing marks that label her as different. These marks turn her once great life into a nightmare. She is mistreated, abused, and sold like a slave to heal others. The book features the paranormal, mythology, contemporary, fantasy and YA genres. It is incredible how Jenna Greene weaves them all into an epic tale. The journey is full of heartfelt tragedy. I was deeply engaged in Lexil's life. Her life is full of mystery, courage, strength, and hope. Even though the hope seems to be small it still hangs there in the story. I have read a few stories similar to this one and it always ends tragically no matter what. Lexil's overall transformation was a complete 360. I was amazed. I hope Jenna Greene turns this into a series. I cannot wait to find out what happens to the other characters.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
Jenna Green knows how to tell a story and keep you interested until the end. This is about slavery and freedom. If you have marks you are considered to be a reborn and sold into slavery to serve the once born. Lexis gets her marks late at the age of sixteen. She is sold to Donfair a plantation owner. A child Ceera is also sold to Donfair. Their life is not easy and with the help of a double born, Finn they escape to the unclaimed cities. Lots happen and you learn a little about what it is to be a reborn. This book is good for all ages. I recommend it and can see it becoming the newest best series.
Wow indeed. Loved it. Adventure, a teeny tiny romance, and hope. Nothing really to worry about or tell. Over than a severe beating. Though the ends sounds like there will be more books in the future. For which I am glad for. About a girl named Lexil who was sold into slavery due to her freakles (called memory marks). Those that have them are called Reborns. Ones without are called Once Borns. Lexil will find out that the life of a slave can be rough, but with a little bit of help from new friends, she might just manage. But when a new friend tells her a tale of escape. She kinda holds out that hope may not be far or is it? Will she stay or will she go?
***I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review *** Reborn is a fun, engaging read. I devoured it over an afternoon, and would gladly read more. Jenna has built a complex, troubling world. I thoroughly enjoyed her writing style, and the characters she created. I feel like there's an awful lot to go back to and unpack if additional books were to be written - the leaves, the abilities of the reborn, the family that sold Lexil off ... So much I want to know more about! Jenna has written a book that both adults and children can enjoy, and I truly did.
Great book for any age. Believe it or not but the cover drew me to wanting to read this one. It was a great choice by the author! What was behind the cover was even better! I have been reading a number of dystopian in the last few months and this is one of the best I have read. Lexil, Finn, and Ceera were awesome characters with depth and complex. Then you add the world of reborn, once born and double borns you have a unique and page-turner story. I highly recommend this entertaining book. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
Reborn was an intense read. There are a quite a few horrifying moments of abuse - physically, mentally, and sexually. There are hints in the beginning of the book that show how things may play out. I really didn't want to put this book down. It's incredibly sad, but with a good ending. I hope there is a series continuation with this because there was some awesome world and society building. I received this book at no charge. All opinions are completely my own.
The cover drew me in. The story was intense and at times so incredibly sad that it was hard for me to push through... however, the ending was a relief for me.... as it wasn't sad. The story is well written, characters are multidimensional and complex, and the story layered. This story drew me in, kept me intrigued and entertained, and left me wanting more. Great job Jenna!
As expected from any work by the talented Jenna Greene Reborn hits all the right notes. The world creation is compelling and hits just the right complexity and level of nuance for younger readers. Though dark at times, the author knows her audience well. There is a lot to appreciate and discuss in this story with a realism to the young characters we can all enjoy.
This was one heck of a story. I was completely drawn in from the moment I started reading it. I'm a big Fantasy and Dystopian fan so this was up my street. A new author for me but one I will definitely be looking up again!
interesting storyline... different and made me curious.. it had a very real feeling to it.. like this is something that one day may be a possibility. which made it a creepy read also haha. very interesting
Full of fantasy and action. I didn't want to put it down for a moment. An absolutely fantastic read and I will definitely be one-clicking this author from now on.
I found this book interesting. It was unique and held my attention. I found the plot engaging and I was invested in the characters' lives. I have not read this author before but I would read another book by her. I think others will enjoy reading it as well. I would recommend it to those who enjoy YA dystonian reads.