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The Unknown Series
The Unknown
"I have read hundreds of books and it is extremely rare for me to be surprised or give 5 stars. I almost always anticipate the plot twists. I thought I had this one all figured out from the very beginning. I couldn't have been more wrong! An exhilarating, emotional, fast-paced read that I couldn't put down. This story was utterly unique." - Justine, Book Catharsis ★★★★★
EIGHT CHILDREN WERE KIDNAPPED.
BUT WHY?
Eight kids, ages nine to seventeen, awaken to find that almost everything they have ever known has been stolen from them. They were ripped from their beds in the middle of the night and transported to an unfamiliar and unforgiving new world where there are strict rules, and they are punished if they refuse to obey.
As the kids grapple with their mysterious new reality, they struggle with disconcerting questions. Where in the world are they? Why were they taken away from their families? Will they ever get to go back home? And the most frightening question of all: Will this be the place where they die?
If you like mysteries with intriguing suspense, riveting action and adventure, short captivating chapters, clean romance, found family, and jaw-dropping twists and turns that keep you guessing until the end, you'll love this exciting new dystopian thriller!
What readers are saying about THE UNKNOWN:
"Gripping. Unique. Lots of mystery and intrigue. Dystopian is one of my favourite genres, but I haven't seen it written so well in a very long time. I finished reading this book in awe." - Carly, Goodreads ★★★★★
"I read A LOT and this book had lots of surprises which I didn't see coming. I definitely could not put this one down! I truly loved this book!" - Michelle, Goodreads ★★★★★
"I love dystopian novels, but I have to admit, after a while, they tend to follow the same plotline and twists. This is TOTALLY not the case here. I was shocked." - Gail, Goodreads ★★★★★
"Lots of suspense, twists, and turns. I never saw the ending coming. It was a total surprise and explained everything!" - Karon, Goodreads ★★★★★
What teachers are saying about THE UNKNOWN:
"Great book for any student that says 'I get bored quickly!' Trust me! You won't with J.W. Lynne's The Unknown!" - Mr. Stefanelli
"I am an ELA educator, and my class is reading and analyzing The Unknown. We have approximately 200 IB students. They are engaging with this book. It is so relevant to them. It has been a real blessing." - Mr. Nelson
"Keeps you guessing until the end. If you like adventurous mysteries with great characters, then I highly recommend this book. 10 out of 10 stars." - Ms. Murray
"After teaching The Unknown I ordered the sequel (The Haven) and my 8th graders couldn't put it down! These books are amazing for teens and adults!" - Melissa
Perfect for fans of Unwind by Neal Shusterman, The Maze Runner by James Dashner, The Darkest Minds by Alexandra Bracken, City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau, Scythe by Neal Shusterman, or The Giver by Lois Lowry. Highly recommended for tween boys and girls ages 12 and up, teens, young adults, men, and women.
THE UNKNOWN is book one in a completed series of two novels.
Books in the UNKNOWN series:
Book 1: THE UNKNOWN
Book 2: THE HAVEN
THE UNKNOWN can be enjoyed as a standalone.
THE HAVEN is sold separately.
Both books are available in Kindle ebook and paperback.
All of J.W. Lynne's books are available in Kindle Unlimited.
EIGHT CHILDREN WERE KIDNAPPED.
BUT WHY?
Eight kids, ages nine to seventeen, awaken to find that almost everything they have ever known has been stolen from them. They were ripped from their beds in the middle of the night and transported to an unfamiliar and unforgiving new world where there are strict rules, and they are punished if they refuse to obey.
As the kids grapple with their mysterious new reality, they struggle with disconcerting questions. Where in the world are they? Why were they taken away from their families? Will they ever get to go back home? And the most frightening question of all: Will this be the place where they die?
If you like mysteries with intriguing suspense, riveting action and adventure, short captivating chapters, clean romance, found family, and jaw-dropping twists and turns that keep you guessing until the end, you'll love this exciting new dystopian thriller!
What readers are saying about THE UNKNOWN:
"Gripping. Unique. Lots of mystery and intrigue. Dystopian is one of my favourite genres, but I haven't seen it written so well in a very long time. I finished reading this book in awe." - Carly, Goodreads ★★★★★
"I read A LOT and this book had lots of surprises which I didn't see coming. I definitely could not put this one down! I truly loved this book!" - Michelle, Goodreads ★★★★★
"I love dystopian novels, but I have to admit, after a while, they tend to follow the same plotline and twists. This is TOTALLY not the case here. I was shocked." - Gail, Goodreads ★★★★★
"Lots of suspense, twists, and turns. I never saw the ending coming. It was a total surprise and explained everything!" - Karon, Goodreads ★★★★★
What teachers are saying about THE UNKNOWN:
"Great book for any student that says 'I get bored quickly!' Trust me! You won't with J.W. Lynne's The Unknown!" - Mr. Stefanelli
"I am an ELA educator, and my class is reading and analyzing The Unknown. We have approximately 200 IB students. They are engaging with this book. It is so relevant to them. It has been a real blessing." - Mr. Nelson
"Keeps you guessing until the end. If you like adventurous mysteries with great characters, then I highly recommend this book. 10 out of 10 stars." - Ms. Murray
"After teaching The Unknown I ordered the sequel (The Haven) and my 8th graders couldn't put it down! These books are amazing for teens and adults!" - Melissa
Perfect for fans of Unwind by Neal Shusterman, The Maze Runner by James Dashner, The Darkest Minds by Alexandra Bracken, City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau, Scythe by Neal Shusterman, or The Giver by Lois Lowry. Highly recommended for tween boys and girls ages 12 and up, teens, young adults, men, and women.
THE UNKNOWN is book one in a completed series of two novels.
Books in the UNKNOWN series:
Book 1: THE UNKNOWN
Book 2: THE HAVEN
THE UNKNOWN can be enjoyed as a standalone.
THE HAVEN is sold separately.
Both books are available in Kindle ebook and paperback.
All of J.W. Lynne's books are available in Kindle Unlimited.
388 pages, Paperback
Published August 2, 2019
701 people are currently reading
1730 people want to read
About the author
J.W. Lynne
12 books65 followersJ.W. Lynne writes suspenseful page-turners with twists, turns, and surprises. Her novels include ...
THE UNKNOWN: Eight kids are locked in a mysterious prison.
(suspense, mystery, thriller, action, adventure, dystopian, clean romance)
Recommended for adults, teens, and tweens ages 12 years old and up.
ABOVE THE SKY: In a broken world, teens are sent off to war knowing they will never return.
(suspense, childhood-best-friends-to-lovers closed-door forbidden romance, dystopian, action, adventure, mystery, thriller, futuristic military sci-fi)
Recommended for adults and teens ages 13 years old and up.
THE DARKNESS OUTSIDE: A teen’s simulated trip to the moon takes a shocking turn.
(suspense, action, adventure, clean romance, futuristic science fiction, space travel, mystery, thriller, dystopian)
Recommended for adults, teens, and tweens ages 12 years old and up.
IF I TELL: A teen wonders if her father is a serial killer.
(murder mystery, crime thriller, suspense, family drama, clean romance)
Recommended for adults and teens ages 13 years old and up.
WHAT HE DIDN'T TELL ME: A traumatized girl meets a boy with a horrible secret.
(heartbreaking love story with clean romance, tearjerker, travel adventure, mystery, suspense)
Recommended for adults and teens ages 13 years old and up.
KID DOCS: An experimental program teaches kids to be doctors.
(fun and educational medical fiction, clean romance)
Recommended for teens and tweens ages 12 years old and up.
WILD ANIMAL SCHOOL: A teen spends a romantic summer learning to train and care for tigers, lions, leopards, grizzly bears, and elephants.
(animal adventure, clean romance)
Recommended for adults, teens, and tweens ages 12 years old and up.
LOST IN TOKYO: A girl travels to Japan to follow her missing mother’s bucket list.
(travel adventure, mystery, clean best-friends-to-lovers romance, tearjerker)
Recommended for adults and teens ages 13 years old and up.
All of J.W. Lynne's books are available on Kindle Unlimited.
Connect with J.W. Lynne on Goodreads, Facebook, and Twitter!
Click “Follow Author” to be notified by Goodreads when J.W. Lynne's next book is published!
THE UNKNOWN: Eight kids are locked in a mysterious prison.
(suspense, mystery, thriller, action, adventure, dystopian, clean romance)
Recommended for adults, teens, and tweens ages 12 years old and up.
ABOVE THE SKY: In a broken world, teens are sent off to war knowing they will never return.
(suspense, childhood-best-friends-to-lovers closed-door forbidden romance, dystopian, action, adventure, mystery, thriller, futuristic military sci-fi)
Recommended for adults and teens ages 13 years old and up.
THE DARKNESS OUTSIDE: A teen’s simulated trip to the moon takes a shocking turn.
(suspense, action, adventure, clean romance, futuristic science fiction, space travel, mystery, thriller, dystopian)
Recommended for adults, teens, and tweens ages 12 years old and up.
IF I TELL: A teen wonders if her father is a serial killer.
(murder mystery, crime thriller, suspense, family drama, clean romance)
Recommended for adults and teens ages 13 years old and up.
WHAT HE DIDN'T TELL ME: A traumatized girl meets a boy with a horrible secret.
(heartbreaking love story with clean romance, tearjerker, travel adventure, mystery, suspense)
Recommended for adults and teens ages 13 years old and up.
KID DOCS: An experimental program teaches kids to be doctors.
(fun and educational medical fiction, clean romance)
Recommended for teens and tweens ages 12 years old and up.
WILD ANIMAL SCHOOL: A teen spends a romantic summer learning to train and care for tigers, lions, leopards, grizzly bears, and elephants.
(animal adventure, clean romance)
Recommended for adults, teens, and tweens ages 12 years old and up.
LOST IN TOKYO: A girl travels to Japan to follow her missing mother’s bucket list.
(travel adventure, mystery, clean best-friends-to-lovers romance, tearjerker)
Recommended for adults and teens ages 13 years old and up.
All of J.W. Lynne's books are available on Kindle Unlimited.
Connect with J.W. Lynne on Goodreads, Facebook, and Twitter!
Click “Follow Author” to be notified by Goodreads when J.W. Lynne's next book is published!
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
January 26, 2019
I was given this book to read in exchange for my honest opinions, and due to a shared love of dystopian fiction. This is the first book I’ve read from J W Lynne and as an avid bookworm. The plot was engaging, gripping and very well written.
My initial thoughts on this book was that it may be fan fiction of the ‘Gender Game’ series, but I could not have been more wrong, as the story is unique and very much a stand-alone series that I can’t wait to explore and learn more about.
The book begins with eight children of varying ages being kidnapped. They do not know why they have been taken, or selected, and they have no idea why they have woken in coffin pod beds in little compartments. As the story develops you learn about each individual child and about their situations, upbringing and fears. You also learn more about the small common room area where they are being held captive, and join them on their journey of discovery.
If you think it’ll be hard to remember the names of each child, think again, for the way in which they are each portrayed is very clever and they all became very easy to distinguish.
The book is structured into chapters about each child and their differing perspectives, you read of them forming close bonds over their situation and watch as close friendships blossom.
Like all dystopian fiction there is lots of mystery, and intrigue and that comes in the form of a ‘Star Room’, a room in which each child must dare to enter, but what they experience is all completely unique to them and testing.
I absolutely loved Goat as a character, I had some laugh out loud moments of how he responds to things and he just seems so honest and adorable. I just know there will be a character for everyone.
There was lots of twists and turns in this book and due to the mystery and suspense, I formed a lot of questions, questions which were slowly answered in clever ways, and for the ones that didn’t, I just hope there is a second book!
I could not recommend this book enough, it’s one of my favourite genres, but I haven’t seen it written so well in a very long time. This is only the start of an amazing writing journey for J W Lynne with this series and I am so pleased I have gotten to be such a small part of it. I finished reading this book in awe and just wishing to have more and I know any reader who buys this book when published will feel the same. It has all the potential for a very popular series.
My initial thoughts on this book was that it may be fan fiction of the ‘Gender Game’ series, but I could not have been more wrong, as the story is unique and very much a stand-alone series that I can’t wait to explore and learn more about.
The book begins with eight children of varying ages being kidnapped. They do not know why they have been taken, or selected, and they have no idea why they have woken in coffin pod beds in little compartments. As the story develops you learn about each individual child and about their situations, upbringing and fears. You also learn more about the small common room area where they are being held captive, and join them on their journey of discovery.
If you think it’ll be hard to remember the names of each child, think again, for the way in which they are each portrayed is very clever and they all became very easy to distinguish.
The book is structured into chapters about each child and their differing perspectives, you read of them forming close bonds over their situation and watch as close friendships blossom.
Like all dystopian fiction there is lots of mystery, and intrigue and that comes in the form of a ‘Star Room’, a room in which each child must dare to enter, but what they experience is all completely unique to them and testing.
I absolutely loved Goat as a character, I had some laugh out loud moments of how he responds to things and he just seems so honest and adorable. I just know there will be a character for everyone.
There was lots of twists and turns in this book and due to the mystery and suspense, I formed a lot of questions, questions which were slowly answered in clever ways, and for the ones that didn’t, I just hope there is a second book!
I could not recommend this book enough, it’s one of my favourite genres, but I haven’t seen it written so well in a very long time. This is only the start of an amazing writing journey for J W Lynne with this series and I am so pleased I have gotten to be such a small part of it. I finished reading this book in awe and just wishing to have more and I know any reader who buys this book when published will feel the same. It has all the potential for a very popular series.
March 29, 2020
If you like books that don’t answer a single question then man have I got the book for you.
I guess the premise and the first 200 pages had me invested so largely that even with the “truth” revealed I am still skeptical, in fact more skeptical than the characters I just watched outsmart their own situation a bunch of times? Now they get told one thing and watch a video they are suddenly like oh okay THE END.
This entire story wrote itself into a corner and the “resolution” was an easy out. It’s called a twist in reviews because it’s so completely out of nowhere and that doesn’t make it revolutionary it makes it dissatisfying.
I guess the premise and the first 200 pages had me invested so largely that even with the “truth” revealed I am still skeptical, in fact more skeptical than the characters I just watched outsmart their own situation a bunch of times? Now they get told one thing and watch a video they are suddenly like oh okay THE END.
This entire story wrote itself into a corner and the “resolution” was an easy out. It’s called a twist in reviews because it’s so completely out of nowhere and that doesn’t make it revolutionary it makes it dissatisfying.
February 22, 2020
I purchased this book for my library after a friend's daughter read it and loved it. As far as I know, she has read it twice. So, I also purchased a copy for myself. I didn't guess anything correctly! Usually I suspect the end, but not this time. I loved all of the characters, especially the fact that they were all different ages. This book is going to be a hit with my teens, and I am excited to booktalk it this week! I will be purchasing and reading more by this author!!!
November 17, 2020
Gripping until the end!
Wow! I was caught up.right away in the story and could barely stop reading. What an interesting and unexpected story. So much happens to each character but you also go through their life changes with them. I never knew what was going to happen next. I was guessing until the end. Great writing!
Wow! I was caught up.right away in the story and could barely stop reading. What an interesting and unexpected story. So much happens to each character but you also go through their life changes with them. I never knew what was going to happen next. I was guessing until the end. Great writing!
May 17, 2020
I loved it so much
January 6, 2021
I could not put this book down! The book built kept building off of each other, making you want to keep reading! It was a mix of a little bit of mystery, romance, and had emotional moments. The whole book you are trying to figure out what is happening to these kids. It keeps you engaged and had a great plot! It was as a whole a great book!
June 9, 2019
Waking to find themselves grouped together in an unknown 'bunker', eight children are about to fear for their lives. Not knowing why or where they've been taken, their lives are thrown together in scary and uncertain circumstances.
If you're a fan of dystopian reads, this book ticks all the boxes. From the opening chapters, we're thrown into an unknown world, where both the characters and readers have no idea where they are or why they're there. While this is definitely a young-adult read, our characters range from the very young to those on the edge of adulthood, and the author writes each of the points-of-view brilliantly. We see things from three very different angles; nine-year-old Goat who, at such a young age has already experienced so much pain; twelve-year-old Tiger, whose autistic traits make it even harder to adapt to her new lifestyle; and finally, Unpleasant, a teenager on the brink of adulthood who is still struggling to find her place in the world. The author differentiates her writing perfectly between each character, making it clear that each of them have their own voice.; each of their points-of-view is believable, which is so often a book's downfall.
As for the plot itself, it is executed brilliantly. The author has found the perfect balance of revealing information and creating suspense; I had so many questions going through my head while reading this! Most importantly, the timings were spot on. When the big reveal finally comes, I was shocked. It was an 'oh my god' moment and I loved every second of it. Not only did it make sense, it created this whole new world of questions, possibilities and storylines. While I was satisfied with what had been revealed, I have been left desperate for more!
Once again, the author has pulled it out of the bag. While I am a little biased, being a huge fan of their previous series, I cannot wait to find out more about these characters and the world they live in. I've truly connected with them and am eager to see how things turn out for them. I cannot recommend this book enough and am super excited to share it with my friends.
If you're a fan of dystopian reads, this book ticks all the boxes. From the opening chapters, we're thrown into an unknown world, where both the characters and readers have no idea where they are or why they're there. While this is definitely a young-adult read, our characters range from the very young to those on the edge of adulthood, and the author writes each of the points-of-view brilliantly. We see things from three very different angles; nine-year-old Goat who, at such a young age has already experienced so much pain; twelve-year-old Tiger, whose autistic traits make it even harder to adapt to her new lifestyle; and finally, Unpleasant, a teenager on the brink of adulthood who is still struggling to find her place in the world. The author differentiates her writing perfectly between each character, making it clear that each of them have their own voice.; each of their points-of-view is believable, which is so often a book's downfall.
As for the plot itself, it is executed brilliantly. The author has found the perfect balance of revealing information and creating suspense; I had so many questions going through my head while reading this! Most importantly, the timings were spot on. When the big reveal finally comes, I was shocked. It was an 'oh my god' moment and I loved every second of it. Not only did it make sense, it created this whole new world of questions, possibilities and storylines. While I was satisfied with what had been revealed, I have been left desperate for more!
Once again, the author has pulled it out of the bag. While I am a little biased, being a huge fan of their previous series, I cannot wait to find out more about these characters and the world they live in. I've truly connected with them and am eager to see how things turn out for them. I cannot recommend this book enough and am super excited to share it with my friends.
January 5, 2020
Plot Fell Flat
This had all the makings of a great book, but you will be disappointed with the ending. It was great then it slowly fizzled out. *spoiler alert* it was all virtual reality because the world war ending somehow? And they (the fathers) chose to kidnap then torture...i mean prepare kids for the world ending? All the relationships formed in the “virtual reality” was simply glossed over and apparently didn’t matter. For the romance we got a kiss. One kiss. This would have been so great. What happened? Its like the author planned for an epic story but ran out of time and yelled “sike! nothing matters and is not real. The world is ending (somehow) and we will never find out why anything happened. We have no real resolution and I have successfully wasted your time. Good night.” 2.5
This had all the makings of a great book, but you will be disappointed with the ending. It was great then it slowly fizzled out. *spoiler alert* it was all virtual reality because the world war ending somehow? And they (the fathers) chose to kidnap then torture...i mean prepare kids for the world ending? All the relationships formed in the “virtual reality” was simply glossed over and apparently didn’t matter. For the romance we got a kiss. One kiss. This would have been so great. What happened? Its like the author planned for an epic story but ran out of time and yelled “sike! nothing matters and is not real. The world is ending (somehow) and we will never find out why anything happened. We have no real resolution and I have successfully wasted your time. Good night.” 2.5
July 2, 2019
Once again I was impressed with Lynne's books. This one had me non-stop reading and I loved it. When I looked at the cover I thought it was going to be one of those mildly scary with how it looks. Then, I read the blurb and automatically started reading it. I didn't put my kindle down at all during reading this book because I was so interested. If you have never read this, you better clear your schedule because you are I for a treat!
December 14, 2021
If I could give this 10 stars, I would. Such an original Dystopian novel and I was literally gripped and totally invested from the first page. This one kept me up late, had me asking so many questions, screeching with frustration and breathing heavily with anxiety.
I highly recommend this if you're looking for a twisty, futuristic, unputdownable read.
I can't wait to start the second in the duology!
I highly recommend this if you're looking for a twisty, futuristic, unputdownable read.
I can't wait to start the second in the duology!
April 24, 2022
This is a mystery book read that was sent to me. The premise sounds oh so good, right up my alley, however it failed to impress. The book reminds me of the 90's movie "cube", but with children instead of adults. The characters were just off to me and the story line too. It wasn't a bad book just not for me.
January 18, 2022
This has got to be my favorite book I have ever read, every turn was something you would never expect and I love that. The suspenseful parts literally made me frightened sometimes even! Amazing book and author :)
June 22, 2022
The characters in this book are amazing, I loved every part of the story so much.
March 20, 2019
I received an ARC of this book from the author, and once I started, I couldn't put it down! I love dystopian novels, but I have to admit, after a while, they tend to follow the same plotline and twists. This is TOTALLY not the case here. J.W. Lynne's style of writing and the world she creates with her words is a refreshing change from the norm!
The mystery and intrigue of the situation is compelling, and you keep reading in hopes of discovering what will happen next, and what secrets will be unraveled. New twists continue to a be revealed, and the setting expands from one room to a whole different world. The suspense made it hard to put this book down. I love reading and have read so many novels, and often, can figure out what will happen in the end. NOT THIS ONE. I was shocked, excited, and giddy with excitement - though it ends well, the ending also leaves room for more. I cannot give any spoilers, but I can totally see how there could be a next book (if there is! Fingers crossed tightly!) and cannot wait if and when another will come out!
I love how the story is heavily focused on developing each character, and how the narrative is portrayed through the eyes of several children, ranging from 8 years old to 17. You get an inside view of what each is thinking, feeling, their past, and motivation for their actions, making it feel almost as if you were reading the personal diaries of different people who are experiencing the same situation, yet understanding why they would each respond in a different way. The children themselves are very diverse, yet very real: they face real world problems that us, as readers, may have experienced, and that drew me in as a reader to empathize and want to know more about them. It may be dystopian, but it feels real enough - this could be happening right now!
Thank you J.W. Lynne, for creating this world for us! I can't wait to see more! If you've not read any of her other books, it's time to try it out. I've only read The Sky series so far, other than this one, and it is just as amazing and compelling of a read, and I also highly recommend it - her other books are on my reading list, and I cannot wait to read more of her work!
The mystery and intrigue of the situation is compelling, and you keep reading in hopes of discovering what will happen next, and what secrets will be unraveled. New twists continue to a be revealed, and the setting expands from one room to a whole different world. The suspense made it hard to put this book down. I love reading and have read so many novels, and often, can figure out what will happen in the end. NOT THIS ONE. I was shocked, excited, and giddy with excitement - though it ends well, the ending also leaves room for more. I cannot give any spoilers, but I can totally see how there could be a next book (if there is! Fingers crossed tightly!) and cannot wait if and when another will come out!
I love how the story is heavily focused on developing each character, and how the narrative is portrayed through the eyes of several children, ranging from 8 years old to 17. You get an inside view of what each is thinking, feeling, their past, and motivation for their actions, making it feel almost as if you were reading the personal diaries of different people who are experiencing the same situation, yet understanding why they would each respond in a different way. The children themselves are very diverse, yet very real: they face real world problems that us, as readers, may have experienced, and that drew me in as a reader to empathize and want to know more about them. It may be dystopian, but it feels real enough - this could be happening right now!
Thank you J.W. Lynne, for creating this world for us! I can't wait to see more! If you've not read any of her other books, it's time to try it out. I've only read The Sky series so far, other than this one, and it is just as amazing and compelling of a read, and I also highly recommend it - her other books are on my reading list, and I cannot wait to read more of her work!
March 30, 2020
I received this book for Christmas and I knew that I had to read it as soon as possible. I knew pretty much nothing about the story or the author going into it. All I had done was read the back of the book and I was immediately very intrigued. I learned that it was a dystopian novel (one of my favorite genres) and that it was about a group of kids.
This book is about eight kids, ranging from nine to seventeen, who have been kidnapped. They know very little about each other and are thrown into a very unfamiliar place. The story follows three of these kid’s perspectives as they learn what’s going on. Throughout the story, many of the kids become more curious about the situation and learn to take matters into their own hands. The different personalities of the different kids also become quite apparent as they each handle the issues differently.
I really loved this book and read it in about two days. It was the type of book with a very engaging introduction, so I didn’t find myself searching for a reason to keep reading. I also loved how the story was told from the first person, but from three different perspectives. The first page of the book lists the names of all the kids and their ages and when I first started reading, I thought it would be really difficult to keep track of all of them. But the way the author chose to focus on three of the characters is really helpful for the reader because it allowed me to learn a lot about those characters, but while also still learning about the other characters around them. Overall, I really loved this book and had a very difficult time putting it down. It was very attention grabbing and interesting, making it an overall great read.
There were very few things I didn’t like about this book, but there were times I found it somewhat repetitive. A large portion of the book focuses on the kids individually facing their fears. Since we were following three different character’s perspectives, there were times where I felt like I was reading the same thing over and over again. Other than that, my only other complaint is that I hope for there to be a sequel because I still have some unanswered questions.
This book is about eight kids, ranging from nine to seventeen, who have been kidnapped. They know very little about each other and are thrown into a very unfamiliar place. The story follows three of these kid’s perspectives as they learn what’s going on. Throughout the story, many of the kids become more curious about the situation and learn to take matters into their own hands. The different personalities of the different kids also become quite apparent as they each handle the issues differently.
I really loved this book and read it in about two days. It was the type of book with a very engaging introduction, so I didn’t find myself searching for a reason to keep reading. I also loved how the story was told from the first person, but from three different perspectives. The first page of the book lists the names of all the kids and their ages and when I first started reading, I thought it would be really difficult to keep track of all of them. But the way the author chose to focus on three of the characters is really helpful for the reader because it allowed me to learn a lot about those characters, but while also still learning about the other characters around them. Overall, I really loved this book and had a very difficult time putting it down. It was very attention grabbing and interesting, making it an overall great read.
There were very few things I didn’t like about this book, but there were times I found it somewhat repetitive. A large portion of the book focuses on the kids individually facing their fears. Since we were following three different character’s perspectives, there were times where I felt like I was reading the same thing over and over again. Other than that, my only other complaint is that I hope for there to be a sequel because I still have some unanswered questions.
January 28, 2019
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion, feedback and review.
I am a huge fan of the dystopian genre and I can easily say this book is better than The Maze Runner Series. It kept me on edge, with my imagination running until the very end. I have read hundreds of books and it is extremely rare for me to be surprised or give 5 stars. I almost always anticipate the plot twists. I thought I had this one all figured out from the very begining. Apparently, Liam and I were on the same page with our assumptions, as he reveals what he thought was happening in a discussion with Unpleasant. We couldn't have been more wrong! I felt like I was living in an alternate reality, creating all of these possible scenarios in my head.
Watching the mystery unfold from so many different perspectives added another layer of suspense. While I was reading one characters story, I was wondering what the others were up to. It felt personal, like you were getting to know each character on a much deeper level. This deep connection makes the fear of their pain or loss even more substantial.
This was an exhilarating, emotional, fast paced read that I couldn’t put down. Sometimes the dystopian genre can feel a little bit recycled, but this story was utterly unique. I cannot wait to see what the future holds for these 8 kids that started as strangers, but through isolation and a common need to survive, became family.
I am a huge fan of the dystopian genre and I can easily say this book is better than The Maze Runner Series. It kept me on edge, with my imagination running until the very end. I have read hundreds of books and it is extremely rare for me to be surprised or give 5 stars. I almost always anticipate the plot twists. I thought I had this one all figured out from the very begining. Apparently, Liam and I were on the same page with our assumptions, as he reveals what he thought was happening in a discussion with Unpleasant. We couldn't have been more wrong! I felt like I was living in an alternate reality, creating all of these possible scenarios in my head.
Watching the mystery unfold from so many different perspectives added another layer of suspense. While I was reading one characters story, I was wondering what the others were up to. It felt personal, like you were getting to know each character on a much deeper level. This deep connection makes the fear of their pain or loss even more substantial.
This was an exhilarating, emotional, fast paced read that I couldn’t put down. Sometimes the dystopian genre can feel a little bit recycled, but this story was utterly unique. I cannot wait to see what the future holds for these 8 kids that started as strangers, but through isolation and a common need to survive, became family.
March 12, 2019
I just finished the book. OMG it is freaking awesome!! Seriously!
I was drawn in from the first chapter. I never lost interest. The
characters are fully developed. And that is a trait I look for in
books. Bad character development equals not reading the whole book.
This book is for young adults and adults. Even 62 year olds (which is
where I fall). A well written narrative that will draw all ages in. It
is PG rated.
I would rate this story 5 stars, since that is all Amazon will allow.
And it earns all 5 of the stars. Goodreads allows 5 stars so 5 stars
it is.
There were no parts that confused me as I have read other books that
are told from different characters perspectives. Which I find
enjoyable. It’s like getting into their mind, seeing and hearing what
is going on in there. Open access to their innermost thoughts.
This ends with a cliffhanger but it won’t bother you as any questions
you have for THIS book are answered.
The book is edited brilliantly. Which is a huge thing for me. I lose
interest in poorly edited books.
Read it for yourself. Grab it and read it to your children or
grandchildren. Would be perfect for reading to children. You may find
a new book to share and love with the little ones in your life.
Okay, that’s my review. I was truly honored to read this. Thank you. ❤️❤️❤️
I was drawn in from the first chapter. I never lost interest. The
characters are fully developed. And that is a trait I look for in
books. Bad character development equals not reading the whole book.
This book is for young adults and adults. Even 62 year olds (which is
where I fall). A well written narrative that will draw all ages in. It
is PG rated.
I would rate this story 5 stars, since that is all Amazon will allow.
And it earns all 5 of the stars. Goodreads allows 5 stars so 5 stars
it is.
There were no parts that confused me as I have read other books that
are told from different characters perspectives. Which I find
enjoyable. It’s like getting into their mind, seeing and hearing what
is going on in there. Open access to their innermost thoughts.
This ends with a cliffhanger but it won’t bother you as any questions
you have for THIS book are answered.
The book is edited brilliantly. Which is a huge thing for me. I lose
interest in poorly edited books.
Read it for yourself. Grab it and read it to your children or
grandchildren. Would be perfect for reading to children. You may find
a new book to share and love with the little ones in your life.
Okay, that’s my review. I was truly honored to read this. Thank you. ❤️❤️❤️
April 23, 2019
ONE EXCITING ADVENTURE!!!
Wow! Talk about captivating from start to finish. It doesn't let up or leave you hanging, not botched or cut short. With such a stormy storyline and electrifying plot it catapults this little jewel to life remarkably. A rollercoaster of mishaps and struggles propel all of your emotions brusting into play with every color on the spectrum. Drama, uncertainty, danger and suspense coil tighter, drawing you deeper with every spin. Twists and turns abound along with a few glitches and bumps that brings this baby together wonderfully. One non-stop, action packed, heart pounding, nailbiting, pulse racing, page turning thrill ride keeps you on a razors edge throughout. The characters are authentic, believable and so realistic its easy to relate. The scenes are so vivid and descriptive it makes for an amazing backdrop. Lynne is such a detail oriented author she truly lays it all out, you have a very clear picture with all the ends and outs. I can't wait to see what she comes up with next. Incredible job Lynne, thanks for sharing this little gem with us.
Wow! Talk about captivating from start to finish. It doesn't let up or leave you hanging, not botched or cut short. With such a stormy storyline and electrifying plot it catapults this little jewel to life remarkably. A rollercoaster of mishaps and struggles propel all of your emotions brusting into play with every color on the spectrum. Drama, uncertainty, danger and suspense coil tighter, drawing you deeper with every spin. Twists and turns abound along with a few glitches and bumps that brings this baby together wonderfully. One non-stop, action packed, heart pounding, nailbiting, pulse racing, page turning thrill ride keeps you on a razors edge throughout. The characters are authentic, believable and so realistic its easy to relate. The scenes are so vivid and descriptive it makes for an amazing backdrop. Lynne is such a detail oriented author she truly lays it all out, you have a very clear picture with all the ends and outs. I can't wait to see what she comes up with next. Incredible job Lynne, thanks for sharing this little gem with us.
June 3, 2020
Eight kids have been kidnapped all ranging in ages 9-17. They wake up to find everything they have ever known gone. They have been stolen from their homes in the middle of the night. They have been transported to an unfamiliar new world. They are forced to live by strict rules, if they break the rules they are punished. The kids struggle with many things while in captivity. They try to solve the mystery of why they are there, where "there" even is. Why were they chosen? Will they ever escape?
I really enjoyed this book. I am normally not a fan of mysteries but I found this book to be really interesting. I did not see the ending coming. This was an amazing fast paced book that always kept me guessing. I loved all the plot twists. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time, I could not put this book down!! I highly recommend!
I really enjoyed this book. I am normally not a fan of mysteries but I found this book to be really interesting. I did not see the ending coming. This was an amazing fast paced book that always kept me guessing. I loved all the plot twists. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time, I could not put this book down!! I highly recommend!
May 10, 2019
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I warned the author in advance that I take “honest” very seriously.
This is a is strong story with characters that are unique, well developed, and they don’t fall into the overdone YA Dystopian world where the stories are new, but the characters read like fan fic. Any preconceived notions that I had regarding the storyline, quickly took turns in directions I was not expecting. I average 5-14 books per week on average, so storylines can tend to get a bit redundant. Not here. It was exciting to be able to read a Dystopian Novel that took a completely different approach on the topic. This was a great read, and I would love to see future work from the author.
This is a is strong story with characters that are unique, well developed, and they don’t fall into the overdone YA Dystopian world where the stories are new, but the characters read like fan fic. Any preconceived notions that I had regarding the storyline, quickly took turns in directions I was not expecting. I average 5-14 books per week on average, so storylines can tend to get a bit redundant. Not here. It was exciting to be able to read a Dystopian Novel that took a completely different approach on the topic. This was a great read, and I would love to see future work from the author.
June 27, 2019
O. M. G! That was a wild ride! I LOVED it! It grabbed me right from the first page and didn’t let go! This book is about 8 kids, ages 9 to
17, who do not know each other, who have been kidnapped and placed together in an indeterminate location. As these kids are tested by their kidnappers, they come to realize that they need to lean on and support each other if they are going to survive. The twists and turns are hard to see coming, the characters are realistic and you want to get to know them. The situation they are in is fascinating. I would definitely recommend reading it!
17, who do not know each other, who have been kidnapped and placed together in an indeterminate location. As these kids are tested by their kidnappers, they come to realize that they need to lean on and support each other if they are going to survive. The twists and turns are hard to see coming, the characters are realistic and you want to get to know them. The situation they are in is fascinating. I would definitely recommend reading it!
March 19, 2019
I truly loved this book! I read A LOT and this book had lots of surprises which I didn't see coming. It caught my interest from the beginning and kept my attention throughout. I'm not afraid to give up on a book and move on if I find it boring. I definitely could not put this one down! Without giving away any spoilers, it really had great twists and turns. I would highly recommend it to anyone and look forward to reading more from Ms Lynne.
May 1, 2019
A well written dystopian type story full of surprises. A fantastic story with a great plot and in depth characters. The scene descriptions are full bodied and colorful allowing this reader to see
the characters along with the places they are. I would recommend this book not only to those that like the Dystopian Genre, but also those that like mysteries and thrillers.
the characters along with the places they are. I would recommend this book not only to those that like the Dystopian Genre, but also those that like mysteries and thrillers.
January 5, 2020
The Unknown is a really good read. It follows the story of eight children who were kidnapped in their sleep, and put into a strange room. It really is a great book, that has a decent plot twist at the end. There are a few parts of the book that are left unanswered but not enough to write a sequel. Overall a pretty good book if you are looking for a young adult thriller it’s pretty good.
March 29, 2019
Great character development. The interaction between the kids told the story of their lives before the kidnapping, as they tried to figure out how to cope with their situation and find their way home. Lots of suspense, twists, and turns. I never saw the ending coming. It was a total surprise. and explained everything! I can't wait for the next book!
January 25, 2020
This book was amazing. I haven’t been able to get into a good book in a while, but this book hooked me all the way through! I couldn’t stop reading! J.W. Lynne portrays the characters and plot so well. I am really sad this book is over and I can’t wait to read it again.
February 2, 2020
I'm not a huge mystery reader but I read another series by j.w. lynne and loved her writing style so I gave it a chance. I devoured it in a day. Very well written, very relatable characters. I thoroughly enjoyed it and hope she puts out more books in the future.
June 13, 2020
One of the best, most gripping books I have ever read! I couldn’t put it down.
I loved the plot twists, the unique concept, and beautiful descriptions. I would recommend this book to any fan of dystopian worlds and mysteries.
I loved the plot twists, the unique concept, and beautiful descriptions. I would recommend this book to any fan of dystopian worlds and mysteries.
September 6, 2020
I absolutely loved this book. It wasn’t what I was expecting . Eight kids wake up on a some type of carrier after getting kidnapped and drugged the night before. They’re all trying to figure out what’s going on.
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