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Departures: A Suspenseful Young Adult Dystopian Adventure
A SHELF UNBOUND TOP 100 NOTABLE INDIE
"An absorbing, taut coming-of-age tale that grapples intelligently with mortality and liberty." —Kirkus Reviews
Tonight, seventeen-year-old Evalee is scheduled to die.
She's planned her celebration for weeks, and other than leaving her sister Gracelyn behind, she's ready. The Directorate says this is how it should be, and she trusts them, as all its citizens do. So tonight she dresses up, she has a party, and she dances. Then she goes to sleep for the last time ... except, the next morning, Evalee wakes up.
Gracelyn is a model Directorate citizen with a prodigious future ahead. If she could only stop thinking about the shuffling from Evalee's room on her departure morning. Even wondering if something went wrong is treasonous enough to ruin her. If she pulls at the thread, the entire careful life the Directorate set for her could unravel into chaos.
Swept away by rebels, Evalee must navigate a future she didn't count on in a new, untidy world. As the Directorate's lies are stripped away, she becomes determined to break Gracelyn free from its grasp—before Gracelyn 's search for the truth proves her to be more unruly than she's worth to the Directorate.
" Not since The Hunger Games has a book made me truly examine our current society and where we could be taking it to." ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
"I love reading duel narrative books and this one checks all the boxes for compelling story, twists, turns, short chapters, brilliant dialogue, and vivid descriptions." ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
"Fans of The Giver by Lois Lowry will delight in a similar tale about pain and happiness and what it means to truly live." ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
"An absorbing, taut coming-of-age tale that grapples intelligently with mortality and liberty." —Kirkus Reviews
Tonight, seventeen-year-old Evalee is scheduled to die.
She's planned her celebration for weeks, and other than leaving her sister Gracelyn behind, she's ready. The Directorate says this is how it should be, and she trusts them, as all its citizens do. So tonight she dresses up, she has a party, and she dances. Then she goes to sleep for the last time ... except, the next morning, Evalee wakes up.
Gracelyn is a model Directorate citizen with a prodigious future ahead. If she could only stop thinking about the shuffling from Evalee's room on her departure morning. Even wondering if something went wrong is treasonous enough to ruin her. If she pulls at the thread, the entire careful life the Directorate set for her could unravel into chaos.
Swept away by rebels, Evalee must navigate a future she didn't count on in a new, untidy world. As the Directorate's lies are stripped away, she becomes determined to break Gracelyn free from its grasp—before Gracelyn 's search for the truth proves her to be more unruly than she's worth to the Directorate.
" Not since The Hunger Games has a book made me truly examine our current society and where we could be taking it to." ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
"I love reading duel narrative books and this one checks all the boxes for compelling story, twists, turns, short chapters, brilliant dialogue, and vivid descriptions." ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
"Fans of The Giver by Lois Lowry will delight in a similar tale about pain and happiness and what it means to truly live." ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
305 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 10, 2021
65 people are currently reading
2789 people want to read
About the author
E.J. Wenstrom
12 books119 followersE. J. Wenstrom believes in complicated heroes, horrifyingmonsters, purple hair dye and standing to the right on escalators so the leftside can walk. Her award-winning fantasy series Chronicles of the Third RealmWar features a mashup of mythology, folklore, and a little chaos. It starts with Royal Palm Literary Award Book ofthe Year Mud (#1), Tides (#2), and Sparks (#3), as well as the prequel Rain(#0).
When she isn’t writing fiction, E. J. Wenstrom is a regular contributorto DIY MFA and BookRiot,and co-hosts the FANTASY+GIRL Podcast.
Get a FREE novella when you join E. J. Wenstrom's email list: http://ejwenstrom.com/rain/
When she isn’t writing fiction, E. J. Wenstrom is a regular contributorto DIY MFA and BookRiot,and co-hosts the FANTASY+GIRL Podcast.
Get a FREE novella when you join E. J. Wenstrom's email list: http://ejwenstrom.com/rain/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
September 4, 2024
Departures is a thought-provoking and well crafted dystopian novel that offers a fresh perspective on freedom and control. The author storytelling is engaging and filled with tension making this a worthwhile read for fans of sci-fi. Despite a few pacing issues and some under developed characters, the novels, intriguing, premise and emotional depth, made it a strong and enjoyable read. While. Evalees transformation is well done. Some of the secondary characters could use a little bit more development. The world building, however is impressive. EJ‘s depiction of the Directorate’s Society and the rebel world is rich and immersive. The contrast between the two worlds are stark and vividly portrayed, making the stakes feel real and immediate.
August 8, 2021
I read this book via an ARC from the author, for Rosie Amber's Book Review Team. The fact that it was free has not affected this honest review.
I adored the premise of this book - it is set way into the future, after devastating wars, in a part of the world ruled by the 'Directorate'. Here, citizens live in environmentally safe domes called Quads, where every aspect of their lives is observed, every move they make controlled by their governors.
To an extent, I saw this situation as a clever take on a world that could be waiting for us: the mildest physical or mental ill health is to be feared, free speech is not an option and the primary objective is safety for all. No risk taking, no individuality, no strong ideals to make a stand for.
In the Quads, extremes of emotion are not allowed, and grief is treated with medication - which brings me to the title of the book. All citizens have their 'departure' (death) date tattooed on their arm. Many will live for over a century, but others are allowed far less time on this earth. Evie doesn't know why she is to die at aged seventeen, but, as with every other custom in the Quads, the 'departure' procedure is presented as a kindness; the Directorate wishes to spare the individual any pain or discomfort.
Full compliance is essential; any diversion from the official line, from the prescribed behaviour, is not tolerated.
'The Directorate would do whatever was necessary to placate its citizens. There would be an explanation. A distraction. And then life would move forward. A few might question it all for a bit, but the tug of a content, easy life would ultimately lull them back into line. Because, I realise, here's the kicker: what most people want is not to trust their government. It's not to build a better world. All they want is to be comfortable ... and with a sickening twist to my stomach, I realise that I am one of them.'
The problem with Evie's departure ceremony is not only that she doesn't know why she must die when her life has hardly begun. Her departure doesn't happen as it should. She lives. She is one of the few for whom the euthanasia medication doesn't work.
The book alternates between the points of view of Evie, as she finds herself outside the Quads in a strange world that isn't supposed to exist, and her sister Gracelynn, who is confused, hurting over the loss of her sister, and beginning to wonder if their lives are based on lies. The writing itself is clear and effective, and the compelling plot line flows along. Evie and Gracelynn's discoveries come to light gradually, with truths unravelling at just the right pace.
For the first half of the book, Evie and Gracelynn's personalities were well-defined, very different, but as the action ramps up they become more alike. This novel is YA, not usually my genre of choice as I have not been a young adult for decades, but I couldn't resist the plot. I felt this was right for the younger end of the YA range; I can imagine liking it when I was about fourteen but finding it a bit too simplistic when older.
I would have liked some sort of explanation about where in the world this was supposed to take place; as this is a couple of hundred years or more into the future, it could be that the author envisions a world in which the countries as we know them no longer exist - fair enough. There is a little background information, but I would have liked more, and to know how large an area the Quads are supposed to cover, as well as how big they are - I couldn't imagine them. The only other problems I had with it were a) overuse of the word 'goofy', and b) the malfunctioning euthanasia process - even now, there exists the means to put people to death quickly and effectively, so it seems unlikely that in a couple of centuries' time they would still be making errors. However, any books of this genre require some belief suspension here and there, and this didn't bother me too much. Not as much as all the goofy grins, anyway, or 'Jeeze' being spelled 'Geez' (as an expression of annoyance, it's short for 'Jesus') - repetitions and misspellings are something we all do, but these should have been picked up by the editor.
Departures is a stand-alone, though I imagine there is more to come; I liked the rather uncertain ending (no spoilers!), particularly Gracelynn's outcome. E J Wenstrom has created a spookily plausible future world, and I'd certainly be interested in seeing what happens next.
I adored the premise of this book - it is set way into the future, after devastating wars, in a part of the world ruled by the 'Directorate'. Here, citizens live in environmentally safe domes called Quads, where every aspect of their lives is observed, every move they make controlled by their governors.
To an extent, I saw this situation as a clever take on a world that could be waiting for us: the mildest physical or mental ill health is to be feared, free speech is not an option and the primary objective is safety for all. No risk taking, no individuality, no strong ideals to make a stand for.
In the Quads, extremes of emotion are not allowed, and grief is treated with medication - which brings me to the title of the book. All citizens have their 'departure' (death) date tattooed on their arm. Many will live for over a century, but others are allowed far less time on this earth. Evie doesn't know why she is to die at aged seventeen, but, as with every other custom in the Quads, the 'departure' procedure is presented as a kindness; the Directorate wishes to spare the individual any pain or discomfort.
Full compliance is essential; any diversion from the official line, from the prescribed behaviour, is not tolerated.
'The Directorate would do whatever was necessary to placate its citizens. There would be an explanation. A distraction. And then life would move forward. A few might question it all for a bit, but the tug of a content, easy life would ultimately lull them back into line. Because, I realise, here's the kicker: what most people want is not to trust their government. It's not to build a better world. All they want is to be comfortable ... and with a sickening twist to my stomach, I realise that I am one of them.'
The problem with Evie's departure ceremony is not only that she doesn't know why she must die when her life has hardly begun. Her departure doesn't happen as it should. She lives. She is one of the few for whom the euthanasia medication doesn't work.
The book alternates between the points of view of Evie, as she finds herself outside the Quads in a strange world that isn't supposed to exist, and her sister Gracelynn, who is confused, hurting over the loss of her sister, and beginning to wonder if their lives are based on lies. The writing itself is clear and effective, and the compelling plot line flows along. Evie and Gracelynn's discoveries come to light gradually, with truths unravelling at just the right pace.
For the first half of the book, Evie and Gracelynn's personalities were well-defined, very different, but as the action ramps up they become more alike. This novel is YA, not usually my genre of choice as I have not been a young adult for decades, but I couldn't resist the plot. I felt this was right for the younger end of the YA range; I can imagine liking it when I was about fourteen but finding it a bit too simplistic when older.
I would have liked some sort of explanation about where in the world this was supposed to take place; as this is a couple of hundred years or more into the future, it could be that the author envisions a world in which the countries as we know them no longer exist - fair enough. There is a little background information, but I would have liked more, and to know how large an area the Quads are supposed to cover, as well as how big they are - I couldn't imagine them. The only other problems I had with it were a) overuse of the word 'goofy', and b) the malfunctioning euthanasia process - even now, there exists the means to put people to death quickly and effectively, so it seems unlikely that in a couple of centuries' time they would still be making errors. However, any books of this genre require some belief suspension here and there, and this didn't bother me too much. Not as much as all the goofy grins, anyway, or 'Jeeze' being spelled 'Geez' (as an expression of annoyance, it's short for 'Jesus') - repetitions and misspellings are something we all do, but these should have been picked up by the editor.
Departures is a stand-alone, though I imagine there is more to come; I liked the rather uncertain ending (no spoilers!), particularly Gracelynn's outcome. E J Wenstrom has created a spookily plausible future world, and I'd certainly be interested in seeing what happens next.
July 10, 2021
Departures by E. J. Wenstrom is an intriguing dive into a life void of pain and choice. Is it really any kind of life worth living? I loved the two POVs of the sisters as their lives fork and they face their own unique challenges. This story is like The Giver and Divergent, but... more. An impressive work. Thank you, Ms. Wenstrom, for this story. I hope there is a sequel!
August 7, 2021
Departures is a riveting, exciting, and insightful YA dystopian that will make you wanting more while also taking a step back to think deeply about the world we live in and where it could go.
It's been years since I've read a YA dystopian. But this book was the one to change that! The world Wenstrom has come up with is only a few steps from ours. Not since The Hunger Games has a book made me truly examine our current society and where we could be taking it to.
Then, the exploration of sisterhood and how people can be so close but make such different choices for their lives and experience the world in such different ways. I've always loved stories about sisters, and I loved the direction Wenstrom took with this one. I genuinely grew attached to each sister and felt their heartaches and triumphs. But they were both so different and had their own voices and journeys.
The romance genuinely was a side plot and never overshadowed the main plot and growth of the characters which was refreshing. I love a good romance and love story, they're my favorite! But sometimes it's nice to have it downplayed. It's important and part of their growth, but only added to it not took away from the focus.
I absolutely loved this book, and I can't wait for the next one.
*** I received a complimentary eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. ***
It's been years since I've read a YA dystopian. But this book was the one to change that! The world Wenstrom has come up with is only a few steps from ours. Not since The Hunger Games has a book made me truly examine our current society and where we could be taking it to.
Then, the exploration of sisterhood and how people can be so close but make such different choices for their lives and experience the world in such different ways. I've always loved stories about sisters, and I loved the direction Wenstrom took with this one. I genuinely grew attached to each sister and felt their heartaches and triumphs. But they were both so different and had their own voices and journeys.
The romance genuinely was a side plot and never overshadowed the main plot and growth of the characters which was refreshing. I love a good romance and love story, they're my favorite! But sometimes it's nice to have it downplayed. It's important and part of their growth, but only added to it not took away from the focus.
I absolutely loved this book, and I can't wait for the next one.
*** I received a complimentary eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. ***
October 4, 2022
Honestly, I would probably go read a different review if you want to see if this book is for you or not. But if you are struggling reading this book, then continue with mine. Personally, I just did not like this book. I had a lot of issues with the story itself and the pacing and the plot. Nothing pulled me in, nothing caught my attention. It was boring, predictable, and I pushed through it to see if got better. I honestly should have just DNF it and moved on.
Besides the story itself not being interesting, the characters were worse. I know Evie grew up in the Directorship so her ideas are skewed, and it makes sense. But I just never grew to like her character. And honestly I wish the whole story was from her point of view because I ended up just skipping Gracelyn's chapters to just get this book over with. I found neither of them interesting or redeemable or likeable.
Overall, Departures by E.J. Wenstrom was a huge miss for me. If you made it to the end of this review and haven't read the book, I urge you to go read some of the more high rated reviews before using me as a deciding factor. But if you are struggling with the plot, the pacing, the characters, or the whole thing in general and are trying to decide to finish or not.... head my advice and just set it aside and move on.
Besides the story itself not being interesting, the characters were worse. I know Evie grew up in the Directorship so her ideas are skewed, and it makes sense. But I just never grew to like her character. And honestly I wish the whole story was from her point of view because I ended up just skipping Gracelyn's chapters to just get this book over with. I found neither of them interesting or redeemable or likeable.
Overall, Departures by E.J. Wenstrom was a huge miss for me. If you made it to the end of this review and haven't read the book, I urge you to go read some of the more high rated reviews before using me as a deciding factor. But if you are struggling with the plot, the pacing, the characters, or the whole thing in general and are trying to decide to finish or not.... head my advice and just set it aside and move on.
July 3, 2021
Departures is a top-notch dystopian thriller that will hook you from the beginning and keep you there with twists, surprises, and complex characters with layers to discover throughout the story. E.J. Wenstrom excels as masterful characterization, unspooling the characters in tandem with a plot that steadily deepens as danger builds. The world of Departures is fascinating, different from our own yet familiar enough to evoke resonant-and chilling-similarities. Evalee is the perfect protagonist for the story, flawed yet strong and forced to reckon with her goals as she navigates an increasingly challenging situation that tests everything she knows and holds dear. Looking forward to more from this author.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review*
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review*
December 13, 2021
Am I very wrong to want to leave my friends and the curse of the Happiness Machine? -- Genesis, "Am I Very Wrong?"
I've never heard of E.J. Wenstrom before, but my beloved spousal overunit recommended this one.
Her previous work, apparently, includes a fantasy trilogy -- described as "award-winning" without specifying the award -- and a stand-alone "reimagining" sequel to Jane Eyre in which Jane is haunted by the ghost of the first Mrs. Rochester.
Departures, now, is straight-ahead science fiction, of the "young adult dystopia" variety.
Evalee ("Evie") and her sister Gracelyn live with their parents in one of the Quads, domed cities where everybody is happy and healthy. The Directorate makes sure of it, giving you a place to live, healthy food (tailored to your body's needs), an education, meaningful work, and medical care that makes living more than a century the rule rather than the exception.
Oh, and there's your wrists. One wrist contains your digi-pad, a built in electronic everything-machine: communicator, access to (permitted) information, and so on.
The other wrist contains the date of your Departure.
To maximize happiness, citizens of the Quads don't say "death". They talk about Departures. And, when you are born, a detailed analysis of your genetic (?) potential determines the maximum lifespan you can have before your biology will make your life a burden to you.
Evie is scheduled to Depart at the age of seventeen. She plans her celebration and, at the peak of it, takes the capsule that guarantees that she'll sleep well and not wake up.
The only problem is... she does wake up. The citizens whose job it is to take her body for disposal find her moving about and very confused. They, too, are confused by this, and aren't sure what to do. It turns out that there is a protocol for these situations (the Directorate has protocols for everything). In the building wherethe protocol is to be carried out, she is offered a chance to live, and takes it, though it means leaving the Quads forever.
Gracelyn, in the meanwhile, is accepted into an internship at the most prestigious department of the Directorate, the one that determines what will maximize the happiness of the citizenry. But she heard strange noises from Evalee's room on the morning after her Departure celebration, and wonders what they might have meant.
The story proceeds nicely, with a clean (if somewnat pedestrian) writing style and characters more complex than I expect from this subgenre. It made me laugh a couple of times.
The ending is problematic -- though not necessarily in a bad way. Departures ends on not a note, but a chord, of uncertainty.There is nothing in the book or its surrounding materials to suggest sequels. If Wenstrom really intends this as a stand-alone novel, I admire her courage in letting this ending stand; if she intends (a) sequel(s), she's done an admirable job of creating suspense and expecta
I've never heard of E.J. Wenstrom before, but my beloved spousal overunit recommended this one.
Her previous work, apparently, includes a fantasy trilogy -- described as "award-winning" without specifying the award -- and a stand-alone "reimagining" sequel to Jane Eyre in which Jane is haunted by the ghost of the first Mrs. Rochester.
Departures, now, is straight-ahead science fiction, of the "young adult dystopia" variety.
Evalee ("Evie") and her sister Gracelyn live with their parents in one of the Quads, domed cities where everybody is happy and healthy. The Directorate makes sure of it, giving you a place to live, healthy food (tailored to your body's needs), an education, meaningful work, and medical care that makes living more than a century the rule rather than the exception.
Oh, and there's your wrists. One wrist contains your digi-pad, a built in electronic everything-machine: communicator, access to (permitted) information, and so on.
The other wrist contains the date of your Departure.
To maximize happiness, citizens of the Quads don't say "death". They talk about Departures. And, when you are born, a detailed analysis of your genetic (?) potential determines the maximum lifespan you can have before your biology will make your life a burden to you.
Evie is scheduled to Depart at the age of seventeen. She plans her celebration and, at the peak of it, takes the capsule that guarantees that she'll sleep well and not wake up.
The only problem is... she does wake up. The citizens whose job it is to take her body for disposal find her moving about and very confused. They, too, are confused by this, and aren't sure what to do. It turns out that there is a protocol for these situations (the Directorate has protocols for everything). In the building wherethe protocol is to be carried out, she is offered a chance to live, and takes it, though it means leaving the Quads forever.
Gracelyn, in the meanwhile, is accepted into an internship at the most prestigious department of the Directorate, the one that determines what will maximize the happiness of the citizenry. But she heard strange noises from Evalee's room on the morning after her Departure celebration, and wonders what they might have meant.
The story proceeds nicely, with a clean (if somewnat pedestrian) writing style and characters more complex than I expect from this subgenre. It made me laugh a couple of times.
The ending is problematic -- though not necessarily in a bad way. Departures ends on not a note, but a chord, of uncertainty.There is nothing in the book or its surrounding materials to suggest sequels. If Wenstrom really intends this as a stand-alone novel, I admire her courage in letting this ending stand; if she intends (a) sequel(s), she's done an admirable job of creating suspense and expecta
September 4, 2023
I really enjoyed this book, its a great 1st book in the series.
Great characters, I really enjoyed the story line and can not wait to see what happens next, I didn't see the twist with the dad at the end but I knew there was more to him. Hope Gracelyn doesn't give up the fight an turn back into a brain washed citizen.
Love how Evies character grew an believe she will be detrimental in the fight against the directorate.
Definitely recommend.
Great characters, I really enjoyed the story line and can not wait to see what happens next, I didn't see the twist with the dad at the end but I knew there was more to him. Hope Gracelyn doesn't give up the fight an turn back into a brain washed citizen.
Love how Evies character grew an believe she will be detrimental in the fight against the directorate.
Definitely recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 8, 2021
Rating: 4.5/5.0
E.J. Wenstrom has created a gripping dystopian world certain to keep readers riveted.
Read full review in the 2021 October issue of InD'tale Magazine.
E.J. Wenstrom has created a gripping dystopian world certain to keep readers riveted.
Read full review in the 2021 October issue of InD'tale Magazine.
October 6, 2023
Thank you to the author for the ARC. This is an honest review.
"Departures" by E.J. Wenstrom is a thought-provoking and immersive dystopian YA novel that explores the complexities of life, death, and the pursuit of truth in a rigidly controlled society. The story revolves around two sisters, Evie and Gracelyn, who live in a society governed by the Directorate, where death is not a natural occurrence but a scheduled event. Citizens like Evie are expected to celebrate their "departure" with a carefully planned party before going to sleep for the last time. Since her death was predicted so early, she is not given a good education, and her young sister is guided towards trying to limit her attachment. However, when she inexplicably wakes up the next morning, her world is thrown into disarray.
Wenstrom's world-building is wonderful, creating a society that is both intriguing and chilling. The concept of a society where death is scheduled and regulated (and the reasons behind it!) is both thought-provoking and unsettling. The inclusion of surveillance devices like watching lizards adds to the sense of constant scrutiny and control.
The dual perspective of the sisters provides insight into two contrasting paths. Evie's journey as she navigates a new world outside of the Directorate is both thrilling and emotionally resonant. Her determination to uncover the truth and break free from the Directorate's grasp is a driving force in the narrative and her relationships with the rebels are heartwarming. Even while separated, the relationship between the sisters is at the heart of the story, and it undergoes significant development as they find themselves on different paths. The exploration of their evolving bond and the choices they make is one of the novel's most interesting aspects.
The novel raises thought-provoking questions about the value of life, individuality, and the consequences of a society that seeks to control every aspect of existence. It delves into themes of rebellion, sacrifice, and the pursuit of truth, making it a compelling read for fans of dystopian fiction.
"Departures" is a captivating and emotionally charged dystopian novel that offers both suspenseful storytelling and philosophical exploration. It challenges readers to consider the price of control and conformity, making it a thought-provoking addition to the genre.
"Departures" by E.J. Wenstrom is a thought-provoking and immersive dystopian YA novel that explores the complexities of life, death, and the pursuit of truth in a rigidly controlled society. The story revolves around two sisters, Evie and Gracelyn, who live in a society governed by the Directorate, where death is not a natural occurrence but a scheduled event. Citizens like Evie are expected to celebrate their "departure" with a carefully planned party before going to sleep for the last time. Since her death was predicted so early, she is not given a good education, and her young sister is guided towards trying to limit her attachment. However, when she inexplicably wakes up the next morning, her world is thrown into disarray.
Wenstrom's world-building is wonderful, creating a society that is both intriguing and chilling. The concept of a society where death is scheduled and regulated (and the reasons behind it!) is both thought-provoking and unsettling. The inclusion of surveillance devices like watching lizards adds to the sense of constant scrutiny and control.
The dual perspective of the sisters provides insight into two contrasting paths. Evie's journey as she navigates a new world outside of the Directorate is both thrilling and emotionally resonant. Her determination to uncover the truth and break free from the Directorate's grasp is a driving force in the narrative and her relationships with the rebels are heartwarming. Even while separated, the relationship between the sisters is at the heart of the story, and it undergoes significant development as they find themselves on different paths. The exploration of their evolving bond and the choices they make is one of the novel's most interesting aspects.
The novel raises thought-provoking questions about the value of life, individuality, and the consequences of a society that seeks to control every aspect of existence. It delves into themes of rebellion, sacrifice, and the pursuit of truth, making it a compelling read for fans of dystopian fiction.
"Departures" is a captivating and emotionally charged dystopian novel that offers both suspenseful storytelling and philosophical exploration. It challenges readers to consider the price of control and conformity, making it a thought-provoking addition to the genre.
August 30, 2021
Departures by E.J. Wenstrom is one of the best books I have read in a long time. I don't usually read a lot of YA but this book got me hooked from the very beginning. There were so many twists and turns that I didn't expect and the world-building was excellent. I am already recommending it to friends and can't wait until everyone can get their hands on this. If you like the Giver or The Hunger Games, you are going to love this book!
October 25, 2021
For a Young Adult dystopia novel about a place where people have their death date tattooed on their wrists to get me to read it, it's got to have a certain something to stand out from the crowd. The first few chapters of this novel had me wondering if it was worth another trip down special snowflake lane (girl is supposed to die, yet doesn't die; chaos ensues), but slowly, slowly the writing wrapped me up in it's familiar style and everything unfolded at such a wonderful ace, I ended up hooked. Only the last 20% or so had me scratching my head, but there's plenty to love before we get there (and to be fair, even after).
One tiny thing: This ain't a stand-alone novel. Like the first of The Hunger Games, it's more of a chapter end, but with a lot left unresolved. I was a bit disappointed this wasn't clear.
What is clear is that we follow two sisters through their unwitting dystopian nightmare as the scales are pulled from their eyes. Evie is scheduled to die at the age of 17 and has everything all planned out. Her "departure" (in the totalitarian Quads, we don't say "death") party goes well, she says goodbye to her sister Gracelyn, she lies down to sleep... And wakes up the next morning. Alive. When she shouldn't be. The goverment team sent to retrieve her body take her away without anyone knowing she didn't depart, and suddenly Evie finds herself shuffled around between bemused officials and note-bearing strangers and comes to realize the Directorate might not be so kind and caring as she's been told. An unexpected rescue shows her to a world outside the Quads' domes, and it's nothing like she expected. Left behind, Gracelyn is about to start her new apprenticeship working for the Directorate, but she finds she can't let go of her sister's memory. Something seemed off the morning of the departure, and Grace can't rest until she knows the truth.
Honestly, when I started reading this, I wasn't sure it'd be one I'd continue. I mean, death dates on wrists? Special girl who doesn't die? Outside world not as bad as totalitarian insiders think? Yes, those old chestnuts... That ended up being surprisingly tasty when you factor in the very readable writing style. It's really engaging first person POVs that show us two teens finding themselves in fish out of water situations and either pulling themselves together or falling apart just a bit. Evie's the whiny princess type who ends up having to learn how to rough it, while Grace is the top of the class girl who realizes that being the best might not always be what is best.
Plotwise, it does follow many of those same old YA dystopian paths: romance, betrayal, weird friends and hidden enemies, topped off with a layer of Adults Are Bad Because Dystopian Society Reasons. That doesn't mean it's not fun in a mildly predictible way; I kept reading because I wanted to see how the characters were going to react as much as I did to see if the story would go the way I thought it would. The romance element for Evie was completely predictible from the start, but I liked how it handled *ahem* relations and teenage feelings without being over-hormonal or unrealistic. The central chunk of the book is by far the most engaging part, and I really enjoyed it.
I couldn't help but think that it's later some parts didn't add up. A sudden life-changing event occurs almost out of the blue , and from then on it seemed like a head-long rush. Characters started swearing a whole lot more (I'm no prude; I just noticed the first part of the book had little to none) and acting in strange ways. We're suddenly told things about Evie being "rebellious" despite never having seen evidence of that, or having Grace flip out despite it not being in her nature to do so.
There's also the whole message of individual choice thing that didn't quite stack up or the weird thing tonally about fears over climate change, yet the "yummy, real cow burger tastes so much better than printed replicas!" attitude, as if agriculture isn't a worry at all.
But remember this is a YA dystopian novel - they all require a certain amount of suspension of disbelief that picky olders readers can struggle with! Overall I found it a pretty darn gripping read, predictable or not, cliffhanger or no; I wouldn't turn down a chance to read more from the world. For fans of Divergent, Girls with Sharp Sticks, and any death-day centric dystopias out there looking for a comfort read.
One tiny thing: This ain't a stand-alone novel. Like the first of The Hunger Games, it's more of a chapter end, but with a lot left unresolved. I was a bit disappointed this wasn't clear.
What is clear is that we follow two sisters through their unwitting dystopian nightmare as the scales are pulled from their eyes. Evie is scheduled to die at the age of 17 and has everything all planned out. Her "departure" (in the totalitarian Quads, we don't say "death") party goes well, she says goodbye to her sister Gracelyn, she lies down to sleep... And wakes up the next morning. Alive. When she shouldn't be. The goverment team sent to retrieve her body take her away without anyone knowing she didn't depart, and suddenly Evie finds herself shuffled around between bemused officials and note-bearing strangers and comes to realize the Directorate might not be so kind and caring as she's been told. An unexpected rescue shows her to a world outside the Quads' domes, and it's nothing like she expected. Left behind, Gracelyn is about to start her new apprenticeship working for the Directorate, but she finds she can't let go of her sister's memory. Something seemed off the morning of the departure, and Grace can't rest until she knows the truth.
Honestly, when I started reading this, I wasn't sure it'd be one I'd continue. I mean, death dates on wrists? Special girl who doesn't die? Outside world not as bad as totalitarian insiders think? Yes, those old chestnuts... That ended up being surprisingly tasty when you factor in the very readable writing style. It's really engaging first person POVs that show us two teens finding themselves in fish out of water situations and either pulling themselves together or falling apart just a bit. Evie's the whiny princess type who ends up having to learn how to rough it, while Grace is the top of the class girl who realizes that being the best might not always be what is best.
Plotwise, it does follow many of those same old YA dystopian paths: romance, betrayal, weird friends and hidden enemies, topped off with a layer of Adults Are Bad Because Dystopian Society Reasons. That doesn't mean it's not fun in a mildly predictible way; I kept reading because I wanted to see how the characters were going to react as much as I did to see if the story would go the way I thought it would. The romance element for Evie was completely predictible from the start, but I liked how it handled *ahem* relations and teenage feelings without being over-hormonal or unrealistic. The central chunk of the book is by far the most engaging part, and I really enjoyed it.
I couldn't help but think that it's later some parts didn't add up. A sudden life-changing event occurs almost out of the blue , and from then on it seemed like a head-long rush. Characters started swearing a whole lot more (I'm no prude; I just noticed the first part of the book had little to none) and acting in strange ways. We're suddenly told things about Evie being "rebellious" despite never having seen evidence of that, or having Grace flip out despite it not being in her nature to do so.
There's also the whole message of individual choice thing that didn't quite stack up or the weird thing tonally about fears over climate change, yet the "yummy, real cow burger tastes so much better than printed replicas!" attitude, as if agriculture isn't a worry at all.
But remember this is a YA dystopian novel - they all require a certain amount of suspension of disbelief that picky olders readers can struggle with! Overall I found it a pretty darn gripping read, predictable or not, cliffhanger or no; I wouldn't turn down a chance to read more from the world. For fans of Divergent, Girls with Sharp Sticks, and any death-day centric dystopias out there looking for a comfort read.
October 5, 2024
"Departures" is set in a world that makes itself out to be a utopia to the people within the domes, but in reality, it is a dystopia. But to the people within the Directorate, the world they live in is a utopia. Everything is peaceful and everyone is equal. There is no worry about death because everyone already knows their "departure" date, so they have plenty of time to prepare for it. But the veil slowly gets dropped for both sisters, and they realize that the Directorate isn't as benevolent as it claims to be. I did find the switching viewpoints between Evie and Gracelynn to be engaging. You never get bored with one POV because it's constantly shifting. I also enjoyed the switching, because you get to see what it's like on the inside of the Quad and the outside world throughout the entire story.
October 24, 2023
2.5 stars.
"I give in, accept my fear and let it exist, like something separate from me... once i am past the fear my body wakes up with a hunger-- a desperate need to feel alive."
I was a dystopian girly growing up & hadnt read one in a longgg time so i was excited to receive this ARC copy!
The beginning of the book HOOKED me in. I was so excited to see where it was going to, and was unfortunately not a fan for how the story was developing throughout the book.
Some of the issues i had:
-the plot is pretty much the same outline as every other dystopian book.
-insta love & didn't particularly like/care for the romance in this book.
-too long. I dont think it needed to be 400 pages.
-underdeveloped story and world.
-ominous directorate but besides being told that their bad and controlling, i think it would have been better if the directorate played more of an active/offensive role in the book.
-the ending felt rushed.
This book was not for me but i really loved the synopsis, and the FMCs storylines.
This book is reminiscent of Divergent, the Selection, the Uglies, and Matched.
Thank you EJ Wenstrom for thr ARC copy & stickers!!
"I give in, accept my fear and let it exist, like something separate from me... once i am past the fear my body wakes up with a hunger-- a desperate need to feel alive."
I was a dystopian girly growing up & hadnt read one in a longgg time so i was excited to receive this ARC copy!
The beginning of the book HOOKED me in. I was so excited to see where it was going to, and was unfortunately not a fan for how the story was developing throughout the book.
Some of the issues i had:
-the plot is pretty much the same outline as every other dystopian book.
-insta love & didn't particularly like/care for the romance in this book.
-too long. I dont think it needed to be 400 pages.
-underdeveloped story and world.
-ominous directorate but besides being told that their bad and controlling, i think it would have been better if the directorate played more of an active/offensive role in the book.
-the ending felt rushed.
This book was not for me but i really loved the synopsis, and the FMCs storylines.
This book is reminiscent of Divergent, the Selection, the Uglies, and Matched.
Thank you EJ Wenstrom for thr ARC copy & stickers!!
Read
November 24, 2022I haven’t previously read any books by this author, so I came into Departures without expectations other than the blurb.
The prose was tidy and easy to read, and I didn’t notice any typos.
It’s a straightforward story, told from the point of view of two sisters. Both narrative threads are in first person present tense point of view. I found some of the (main and side) character behaviour inexplicable, for the sake of furthering the plot, which I tend to associate more with YA stories.
Both sisters in their own ways discover that the world they grew up in isn’t as they initially believed. I didn’t feel terribly invested in either sister: each one mainly played the role of learning about the (to them) unexpected, which wasn’t unexpected to this reader.
That said, I was interested enough to read all the way through (and I drop probably 80% of books I pick up). The portrayal of their growing realisations worked well, even as I shook my head at their shock as they learned the “real truth” (but then, the characters probably haven’t read YA dystopia themselves).
The prose was tidy and easy to read, and I didn’t notice any typos.
It’s a straightforward story, told from the point of view of two sisters. Both narrative threads are in first person present tense point of view. I found some of the (main and side) character behaviour inexplicable, for the sake of furthering the plot, which I tend to associate more with YA stories.
Both sisters in their own ways discover that the world they grew up in isn’t as they initially believed. I didn’t feel terribly invested in either sister: each one mainly played the role of learning about the (to them) unexpected, which wasn’t unexpected to this reader.
That said, I was interested enough to read all the way through (and I drop probably 80% of books I pick up). The portrayal of their growing realisations worked well, even as I shook my head at their shock as they learned the “real truth” (but then, the characters probably haven’t read YA dystopia themselves).
August 3, 2021
E.J. Wenstrom creates a believable dystopian society, flawless in its execution. This age-appropriate young adult novel is full of tense action and tender moments, exploring what it means to truly be alive. The heart of Departures lies with two sisters and their love of each other, and takes the reader on an emotional journey, each sister learning the truth of their sheltered existence piece by piece. While their carefully constructed realities are stripped away, Gracelyn’s over the course of weeks and Evie’s in the space of a few hours, Wenstrom asks the question: how would you live your life if you knew the date you were going to die? An amazing start to what promises to be an exceptional series!
August 21, 2021
A fast-paced YA dystopian great for fans of UGLIES and DIVERGENT
I read this book way too fast and I'm still a bit dizzy from it. E. J. Wenstrom has created a perfectly polished, suffocating world in the Directorate and it was fascinating to see how differently the two sisters, Evie and Gracelyn react to it. There are serious questions throughout this book about freedom of choice, how we approach mental health and about the value of experiencing pain and happiness. There's many great side characters to love, a found family theme and a sweet romance subplot. My only complaint? I need to know what happens next, so here's to hoping a second book comes soon!
I read this book way too fast and I'm still a bit dizzy from it. E. J. Wenstrom has created a perfectly polished, suffocating world in the Directorate and it was fascinating to see how differently the two sisters, Evie and Gracelyn react to it. There are serious questions throughout this book about freedom of choice, how we approach mental health and about the value of experiencing pain and happiness. There's many great side characters to love, a found family theme and a sweet romance subplot. My only complaint? I need to know what happens next, so here's to hoping a second book comes soon!
August 25, 2023
This dystopian novel is set in a future where in the society of the Directorate everything is controlled and monitored, shades of Big Brother, for the wellbeing of the population. Everyone that lives here has a departure date tattooed on their forearm telling them when their life will end. This allows them and those closest to them to prepare for their deaths, so everyone is prepared for it. As Evalee's departure date approaches she feels hard done by given that she will only be age 17 while others live to 140! On the eve of her departure Evalee attends her departure party before swallowing the pill which will ease her into the afterlife without any suffering on her part. What follows is a thrilling story and a real page-turner. I REALLY loved this book and highly recommend it to all.
Read
August 8, 2021I hope this is a series!
Raised in an enclosed environment designed to create optimal health, 17 year old Evie and her younger sister Gracelyn struggle with the reality of choice, control and trust after discovering their world might not be as perfect as they thought. After all the twists and turns of change, the end the story just left me wanting more!
I received a free advance copy of this book in trade for an honest review.
Raised in an enclosed environment designed to create optimal health, 17 year old Evie and her younger sister Gracelyn struggle with the reality of choice, control and trust after discovering their world might not be as perfect as they thought. After all the twists and turns of change, the end the story just left me wanting more!
I received a free advance copy of this book in trade for an honest review.
September 13, 2023
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed reading Departures. It follows two sisters Evalee who was given a short lifespan until something goes wrong and challenges everything she thought she knew and Gracelyn and how she handles Evalee's departure. It follows them as they navigate their version of what the world is and discovering that everything they thought was the truth. I really hope there is a second book because it was so good.
October 23, 2021
Good story
This is a great depiction of "Big Brother" controlling every aspect of life & how it's human nature to fight back. A young woman stamped to depart, aka die, on a certain date wakes up & realizes she has not. Things are then set in motion for her to go on. I don't want to ruin the story, but well worth the read.
This is a great depiction of "Big Brother" controlling every aspect of life & how it's human nature to fight back. A young woman stamped to depart, aka die, on a certain date wakes up & realizes she has not. Things are then set in motion for her to go on. I don't want to ruin the story, but well worth the read.
November 5, 2021
Very young adult book
I'm an old adult, and I enjoyed this book a great deal. I understood how confused and conflicted both Evie and Grace Lynn felt about the Directorate and their futures... Or in Evie's case her lack of a future. Fast-paced, fairly well edited, ending left room for a sequel but didn't demand you purchase another book to understand. I'm glad I read this book.
I'm an old adult, and I enjoyed this book a great deal. I understood how confused and conflicted both Evie and Grace Lynn felt about the Directorate and their futures... Or in Evie's case her lack of a future. Fast-paced, fairly well edited, ending left room for a sequel but didn't demand you purchase another book to understand. I'm glad I read this book.
May 5, 2022
A little disappoint but...
Has some real potential to create a great series. I felt it moved well with a good set of characters and an interest environment. To me it fell short as nothing was resolved at the end, leaving a 200+ page book feeling like it needed to be longer and have some kind of resolution.
Has some real potential to create a great series. I felt it moved well with a good set of characters and an interest environment. To me it fell short as nothing was resolved at the end, leaving a 200+ page book feeling like it needed to be longer and have some kind of resolution.
July 6, 2024
This book was great! The story had me continuously coming back for more! It was a dual POV with lots of plot twists and unexpected turns. And the ENDING???? I won’t spoil it…but let’s just say it was unexpected. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes dystopian novels! Overall a great read!!
December 29, 2024
Wow! A great book!
I love the unique twists in the story. Evie escapes from the dominant society early and works to see her sister.
Gracelyn hunting to find what really happened to her sister.
And the ending where the sisters meet in the tunnels and Gracelyn opts to return, wow!
There needs to be a sequel
I love the unique twists in the story. Evie escapes from the dominant society early and works to see her sister.
Gracelyn hunting to find what really happened to her sister.
And the ending where the sisters meet in the tunnels and Gracelyn opts to return, wow!
There needs to be a sequel
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 22, 2021
EJ Wenstrom is a master at weaving emotion into storylines and characters into people. Fans of The Giver by Lois Lowry will delight in a similar tale about pain and happiness and what it means to truly live.
May 1, 2022
Good story, good characters
Good story, good characters, but it could use a more thorough proofread.
Eight more words required, even though I am always economical with words I'm not being paid for.
Good story, good characters, but it could use a more thorough proofread.
Eight more words required, even though I am always economical with words I'm not being paid for.
August 24, 2021
I love a good dystopic sci-fi and this was definitely one!! The characters were very relatable and the world and choices they faced were fascinating.
February 14, 2022
Seriously incredible! I've been in a reading rut but this brought right out of it! 📖❤
March 6, 2022
I love books like this I was hoping there was a second one but I don't think that there is. That's a shame
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