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One can live for several weeks without food but only a few days without water, a fact seventeen year old Niko is only too aware of as she struggles to provide for her two younger brothers in a post apocalyptic landscape where the rain burns like acid, food grows increasingly scarce and any Slither that crosses her path is laid low before it can sink its teeth into her.
Then one night everything she'd ever worked for and loved is consumed by a raging fire, leaving her with one brother missing, the other dead and herself gravely injured.
She's rescued by the Rose Circle, a rogue group of Slither hunters. They sneak her into Amaryllis City, a decadent metropolis where those able to pay the exorbitant entrance fee live a life of relative ease.
But for Niko, Amaryllis City is not the haven she grew up believing it would be and her unique abilities as a Slither hunter make her a particularly visible target to a city with hopes of experimentation, replication and other nasty bits.
All Niko ever wanted to do was find her baby brother, but that's proving to be harder than expected.
Then one night everything she'd ever worked for and loved is consumed by a raging fire, leaving her with one brother missing, the other dead and herself gravely injured.
She's rescued by the Rose Circle, a rogue group of Slither hunters. They sneak her into Amaryllis City, a decadent metropolis where those able to pay the exorbitant entrance fee live a life of relative ease.
But for Niko, Amaryllis City is not the haven she grew up believing it would be and her unique abilities as a Slither hunter make her a particularly visible target to a city with hopes of experimentation, replication and other nasty bits.
All Niko ever wanted to do was find her baby brother, but that's proving to be harder than expected.
260 pages, ebook
First published April 28, 2013
17 people are currently reading
332 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
June 15, 2016
Find this and other Reviews at In Tori Lex
I enjoyed reading this glimpse into the world of Niko and the Rose Circle. This is a cruel world full of monsters, acid rain and secrets at every turn.The character development was done well. The characters are diverse and I appreciated the piercings and dreadlocks described. This was fun to read because of the intersecting identities and realistic action. Slither hunters are bad ass, and the actions taken to combat the monsters was realistic and gory. Niko is a strong protagonist who I could relate to, the cover art captures her perfectly.
Despite a strong beginning the second third of the book slows down and becomes confusing. So much starts to happen at once, some of the plot gets lost in the mix. The world building wasn't bad, but ultimately didn't give me enough explanation to feel invested in this environment. There are hints here and there that things haven't been revealed about how the society is run, but little explanation. New characters and elements are introduced towards the end, but they are not enough to make me want to continue the series.
There was a lot of potential here, but the pacing and world building could be improved. I'm glad I took a chance reading a book from this new author, and I hope the series continues to improve. I would recommend this to readers who enjoy a diverse set of characters, science fiction elements and dystopias'.
I enjoyed reading this glimpse into the world of Niko and the Rose Circle. This is a cruel world full of monsters, acid rain and secrets at every turn.The character development was done well. The characters are diverse and I appreciated the piercings and dreadlocks described. This was fun to read because of the intersecting identities and realistic action. Slither hunters are bad ass, and the actions taken to combat the monsters was realistic and gory. Niko is a strong protagonist who I could relate to, the cover art captures her perfectly.
Despite a strong beginning the second third of the book slows down and becomes confusing. So much starts to happen at once, some of the plot gets lost in the mix. The world building wasn't bad, but ultimately didn't give me enough explanation to feel invested in this environment. There are hints here and there that things haven't been revealed about how the society is run, but little explanation. New characters and elements are introduced towards the end, but they are not enough to make me want to continue the series.
"Your not fragile, none of us are. I should have remembered that."
There was a lot of potential here, but the pacing and world building could be improved. I'm glad I took a chance reading a book from this new author, and I hope the series continues to improve. I would recommend this to readers who enjoy a diverse set of characters, science fiction elements and dystopias'.
October 26, 2022
Niko started out very interesting but also in an almost confusing state. I feel as though this was likely intentional by the author since Niko's world came crashing down on her, and she was thrust into a new environment.
Kayti's dystopian, possibly alien/science experiment gone wrong/environmental message about the ozone/zombies story is in a time when water falling to Earth in the form of rain has become acidic. Consequently, food, survival, and everything are hard to come by, and many people have been thinned out. As if this wasn't enough of an issue, there are also creatures known as slithers with long talons and sharp teeth that rip the heart out of humans (not sure about anything else).
Emotionally, I felt as though Niko's brothers maybe could have been played up a bit more. Although some of the events felt predictable, there were some crazy twists to a lot of them. I liked the quirkiness of Niko's personality and her cutesy weapon names. There were a few typos in the kindle copy that I received, but they did not detract enough from the story to make it unenjoyable.
I loved that this was a dystopian novel from the eyes of an other-than-white characters since they are sorely lacking in the genre. With that being said, I think a lot more could have been described as physical appearances. The character's personalities were well portrayed, but it was hard to nail down the majority of their features of what made them stand out, other than a hair color and some specifics about their eyes.
The director and the council could have been better illustrated. Hopefully, this will happen in book two, as I always like to know more about the backstory of how something came to be the way it is. I also want to see where the helicopter came from.
Overall, I loved Niko as a character, and by the end, I wanted to throw my kindle for the cliffhanger ending. I can see many of the elements laid out for the rest of the story, and I can't wait to continue along the craziness of Niko's journey. Four stars for me.
**I received a free digital copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Kayti's dystopian, possibly alien/science experiment gone wrong/environmental message about the ozone/zombies story is in a time when water falling to Earth in the form of rain has become acidic. Consequently, food, survival, and everything are hard to come by, and many people have been thinned out. As if this wasn't enough of an issue, there are also creatures known as slithers with long talons and sharp teeth that rip the heart out of humans (not sure about anything else).
Emotionally, I felt as though Niko's brothers maybe could have been played up a bit more. Although some of the events felt predictable, there were some crazy twists to a lot of them. I liked the quirkiness of Niko's personality and her cutesy weapon names. There were a few typos in the kindle copy that I received, but they did not detract enough from the story to make it unenjoyable.
I loved that this was a dystopian novel from the eyes of an other-than-white characters since they are sorely lacking in the genre. With that being said, I think a lot more could have been described as physical appearances. The character's personalities were well portrayed, but it was hard to nail down the majority of their features of what made them stand out, other than a hair color and some specifics about their eyes.
The director and the council could have been better illustrated. Hopefully, this will happen in book two, as I always like to know more about the backstory of how something came to be the way it is. I also want to see where the helicopter came from.
Overall, I loved Niko as a character, and by the end, I wanted to throw my kindle for the cliffhanger ending. I can see many of the elements laid out for the rest of the story, and I can't wait to continue along the craziness of Niko's journey. Four stars for me.
**I received a free digital copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
May 27, 2015
You know the saying; "Don't judge a book by its cover?" well I always do, if the cover does not catch my eye I will most likely skip it. Although the cover on this one is cool, because of it's cartoonish look I wouldn't have given it a second look, I am horrible like that. Well, yesterday I said; I'm going to read a few chapters and see if it's any good... A few hours later I was done and could not believe how freaking good this book was. Every single chapter was better than the one before, I could not stop reading. It just got better and better and so much was happening, so many details and twists. You would not believe how good this story is...
The story is not just packed with action, although because of it you will most likely be like me and keep on reading, but it also has some scenes that you will not believe. At one time my eyes were like saucers O_O <--- those were my eyes when I read that scene, I was like OMG! Something so totally unexpected and surprising but incredibly good.
There is also a part of the story that was sad, not like you will ugly cry or anything, but if you are like me and get totally invested with the characters you will be sad at one point in the story.
I have to say that Niko is totally bad @ss and her character is likable, strong and perfect!
In a world that has gone to hell and people are struggling to survive we find this group of heroes, and they are super awesome at what they do. All the characters are super awesome and you might fall in love with a few, I did :)
Only one villain except for all the "monsters" (Slithers) and I was glad he was dealt with.
I definitely need the next one like soon, this story is too good and I need to know more.
I will recommend to everyone that likes a sci-fi action packed story with a kick @ss main character.
The story is not just packed with action, although because of it you will most likely be like me and keep on reading, but it also has some scenes that you will not believe. At one time my eyes were like saucers O_O <--- those were my eyes when I read that scene, I was like OMG! Something so totally unexpected and surprising but incredibly good.
There is also a part of the story that was sad, not like you will ugly cry or anything, but if you are like me and get totally invested with the characters you will be sad at one point in the story.
I have to say that Niko is totally bad @ss and her character is likable, strong and perfect!
In a world that has gone to hell and people are struggling to survive we find this group of heroes, and they are super awesome at what they do. All the characters are super awesome and you might fall in love with a few, I did :)
Only one villain except for all the "monsters" (Slithers) and I was glad he was dealt with.
I definitely need the next one like soon, this story is too good and I need to know more.
I will recommend to everyone that likes a sci-fi action packed story with a kick @ss main character.
July 19, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and practically devoured the final third of it last night, having become so caught up in Niko and her quest.
Niko is the first book in The Outsider Chronicles from Kayti Nika Raet. Taking place in a dystopia that has suffered an apparent cataclysmic environmental disaster, leaving its inhabitants fearing the acid rain that falls from the skies, dodging heart-eating Slithers and generally fighting to survive, Raet deftly creates a world full of despair and anger, with glimpses of hope interspersed throughout, setting up the reader for what I can only imagine is going to be an interesting ride.
Her main character, Niko, is the kind of girl I love and would like to see more of: badass, hardcore, take-no-prisoners, survival-of-the-fittest and she is one of the more fit specimens running around the city. Having lost her parents, she is the caretaker for her younger brothers, scouring the outer city for food and that precious commodity, clean water.
Coming home from one such mission results in personal tragedy and the beginning of Niko's adventure, one that will take her inside the city walls to live in the lap of luxury, drink all the clean water she can ingest, kill Slithers and learn more about what is really going on with her cohorts in the Rose Circle, all while never giving up hope to find her brother. Especially refreshing is Niko's devotion to her mission--that of saving her brother--and her refusal to be sidetracked by any of the boys she meets along the way. Niko is a rare gem, who I am certain has some vulnerabilities, but it so very good at hiding them.
My only criticism is more of an editing note than anything to do with the storyline, plot development and the like. There are some grammatical and spelling errors here and there, but these are easily worked around and ignored and probably only stand out to me because I am totally Type-A when it comes to such things.
All in all, this is a great story from a talented and very creative writer; you will get sucked into Raet's world and root for Niko, and her deadly baseball bat, all the while. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of this trilogy and seeing what Miss Raet has in store for us. I am certain she will not disappoint.
Niko is the first book in The Outsider Chronicles from Kayti Nika Raet. Taking place in a dystopia that has suffered an apparent cataclysmic environmental disaster, leaving its inhabitants fearing the acid rain that falls from the skies, dodging heart-eating Slithers and generally fighting to survive, Raet deftly creates a world full of despair and anger, with glimpses of hope interspersed throughout, setting up the reader for what I can only imagine is going to be an interesting ride.
Her main character, Niko, is the kind of girl I love and would like to see more of: badass, hardcore, take-no-prisoners, survival-of-the-fittest and she is one of the more fit specimens running around the city. Having lost her parents, she is the caretaker for her younger brothers, scouring the outer city for food and that precious commodity, clean water.
Coming home from one such mission results in personal tragedy and the beginning of Niko's adventure, one that will take her inside the city walls to live in the lap of luxury, drink all the clean water she can ingest, kill Slithers and learn more about what is really going on with her cohorts in the Rose Circle, all while never giving up hope to find her brother. Especially refreshing is Niko's devotion to her mission--that of saving her brother--and her refusal to be sidetracked by any of the boys she meets along the way. Niko is a rare gem, who I am certain has some vulnerabilities, but it so very good at hiding them.
My only criticism is more of an editing note than anything to do with the storyline, plot development and the like. There are some grammatical and spelling errors here and there, but these are easily worked around and ignored and probably only stand out to me because I am totally Type-A when it comes to such things.
All in all, this is a great story from a talented and very creative writer; you will get sucked into Raet's world and root for Niko, and her deadly baseball bat, all the while. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of this trilogy and seeing what Miss Raet has in store for us. I am certain she will not disappoint.
October 10, 2014
The popularity of the Hunger Games, Divergent, and Legend has lead to an influx of dystopian series with a strong female lead. Niko is the latest entrant of this burgeoning genre and infuses it with promise and it's own unique twist.
Premise: Can't a girl just go out to get a bite to eat for her brothers without her house being burned down and her brothers being attacked by Slithers? For Niko that would be a no. Niko is the protector and provider of her brothers in this post apocalyptic world where people run for their life from the bestial humanoid Slithers and hope to god they are never caught in the acid rain which might be worse. In this bleak landscape Niko is one of the few special people who are capable of killing Slithers making her a wanted commodity. But all Niko wants is to find her brother and some form of normalcy. Yeah, good luck with that.
What I like: It goes without saying that I like Niko. She is a well written character with a clear goal. I like the science behind the salting of the streets after the acid rain. I like the description of the vibrant market place hucksters and all. The author has successfully weaved a post apolopytic world where people battle each other, Slithers, the elements and still manage to maintain their humanity because what the need most is a safe market to procure goods for their daily survival. Good stuff.
What I didn't like: What is different about the people that kill Slithers? Is it reflexes, strength, speed, bravery? This was touched on but never really spelled out and the difference between fantasy and science fiction is that science fiction requires specifics in this area. It's why nerds like me read science fiction. We want monsters, elements, super-powers married to real science somehow and explained. The tree scene went on a bit much for me. I know, I know, you are stuck in a tree and it's bad. Didn't need more than one page to tell me that.
Summary: Really good book. I had to think hard about material for the "What I didn't like" section because the author didn't give me a lot to choose from. Niko is a compelling charismatic character. She has a spine of steel, is determined and at the same-time compassionate and sensitive. All attributes that serve her well as she struggles to survive in her uncompromising environment. I am definitely looking forward to reading more about her and her future adventures. Solid 4 star.
Premise: Can't a girl just go out to get a bite to eat for her brothers without her house being burned down and her brothers being attacked by Slithers? For Niko that would be a no. Niko is the protector and provider of her brothers in this post apocalyptic world where people run for their life from the bestial humanoid Slithers and hope to god they are never caught in the acid rain which might be worse. In this bleak landscape Niko is one of the few special people who are capable of killing Slithers making her a wanted commodity. But all Niko wants is to find her brother and some form of normalcy. Yeah, good luck with that.
What I like: It goes without saying that I like Niko. She is a well written character with a clear goal. I like the science behind the salting of the streets after the acid rain. I like the description of the vibrant market place hucksters and all. The author has successfully weaved a post apolopytic world where people battle each other, Slithers, the elements and still manage to maintain their humanity because what the need most is a safe market to procure goods for their daily survival. Good stuff.
What I didn't like: What is different about the people that kill Slithers? Is it reflexes, strength, speed, bravery? This was touched on but never really spelled out and the difference between fantasy and science fiction is that science fiction requires specifics in this area. It's why nerds like me read science fiction. We want monsters, elements, super-powers married to real science somehow and explained. The tree scene went on a bit much for me. I know, I know, you are stuck in a tree and it's bad. Didn't need more than one page to tell me that.
Summary: Really good book. I had to think hard about material for the "What I didn't like" section because the author didn't give me a lot to choose from. Niko is a compelling charismatic character. She has a spine of steel, is determined and at the same-time compassionate and sensitive. All attributes that serve her well as she struggles to survive in her uncompromising environment. I am definitely looking forward to reading more about her and her future adventures. Solid 4 star.
December 4, 2014
A pragmatic heroine in a harsh world is a surefire way to get my attention, and Niko is a great example of a no nonsense, hard boiled survivor in a world where that’s the norm. Though the character is presented with many emotional obstacles that would trip up your everyday YA main character, Niko wins my adoration by the simple and elusive ability to compartmentalize. There is no reason to be eaten by monsters because you saw your crush pinned to the wall by ‘so and so’, and Niko never allowed this.
I loved the Helicopter scene because it showed that Niko never lost her edge, that she still knew/felt she was an outsider so when the time came she was able to bounce back into survival mode. It was thing of beauty!! she wasn’t the typical cliched “can’t go back to hard times after luxury because they forgot how it was to live rough” that alot of books and shows seem to fall back on especially when it comes to female characters.
Another plus was that it was reminiscent of Hunger Games with a firmer, realistically sound foundation/background.
So if you’re still on a Hunger Games/Catching Fire/ Mockingjay high and you need something like it or dare I say, even better than it? then Niko by Kayti Nika Raet is definitely the way to go!
I loved the Helicopter scene because it showed that Niko never lost her edge, that she still knew/felt she was an outsider so when the time came she was able to bounce back into survival mode. It was thing of beauty!! she wasn’t the typical cliched “can’t go back to hard times after luxury because they forgot how it was to live rough” that alot of books and shows seem to fall back on especially when it comes to female characters.
Another plus was that it was reminiscent of Hunger Games with a firmer, realistically sound foundation/background.
So if you’re still on a Hunger Games/Catching Fire/ Mockingjay high and you need something like it or dare I say, even better than it? then Niko by Kayti Nika Raet is definitely the way to go!
January 22, 2015
Kayti Nica Raet's first book in the Outsider Chronicles was an amazing start to this post-apocalyptic YA fantasy series. Nico is struggling to survive in an extremely harsh environment where tragedy continues to strike at almost every turn.
There's lots in this book to appeal to the YA and also for the more mature readership with Nico as a likeable and courageous heroine fighting against the evil, humanoid monsters (Slithers) who prowl and attack the peoples of the land.
The relationships are nicely done and I particularly like how things evolve with Ben who starts off on quite the wrong foot with Nico.
The plot moved swiftly along with plenty of tension and drama to keep me entertained throughout. I can't wait to read the next in the series. A fantastic debut that I can heartily recommend.
There's lots in this book to appeal to the YA and also for the more mature readership with Nico as a likeable and courageous heroine fighting against the evil, humanoid monsters (Slithers) who prowl and attack the peoples of the land.
The relationships are nicely done and I particularly like how things evolve with Ben who starts off on quite the wrong foot with Nico.
The plot moved swiftly along with plenty of tension and drama to keep me entertained throughout. I can't wait to read the next in the series. A fantastic debut that I can heartily recommend.
February 14, 2016
Action meets fantasy
Niko is an amazing protagonist with a past that's dogging her footsteps. I wasn't sure what to expect, but this story was well crafted and meticulous in its small details, making for a very enjoyable dystopian read. Action scenes were well done and really thrilling to read. Very captivating first book in a series you should definitely be reading if you're on the hunt for diverse books.
Niko is an amazing protagonist with a past that's dogging her footsteps. I wasn't sure what to expect, but this story was well crafted and meticulous in its small details, making for a very enjoyable dystopian read. Action scenes were well done and really thrilling to read. Very captivating first book in a series you should definitely be reading if you're on the hunt for diverse books.
August 29, 2015
NOTES ON DIVERSITY:
This book is packed with diversity. It is Diverse with a capital D. The main character is a take-no-shit suffer-no-fools Black teenager, and most of the people around her are other people of color, too: brown folks, East Asian people, South Asian people, they run the gamut. There are kickass queer characters. There are characters with disabilities. Class issues are on display. Diversity is truly firing on all cylinders in Niko.
Honestly, the author’s attention to issues of diversity in both the characters and the worldbuilding is what moved this from a 3 star to a 4 star rating. It wasn’t only that diversity was present, but how it was woven into the overall book: there is great nuance present here that shows that Kayti Nika Raet thought long and hard about how diversity in fiction ought to be represented. The racial and gender diversity, for example, was presented without comment. The issues of disability became plot threads, things to dissect. Very well done.
REVIEW:
Harmony Niko is seventeen years old and trapped in a nightmarish post-apocalyptic wasteland full of pseudo-human monsters called Slithers that want to eat her and acidic rain that will kill her if she does not find shelter from it. She is responsible for keeping herself and her two younger brothers alive. But while out on a foraging run everything falls apart–she comes back to find her dilapidated house in flames, her youngest brother dead, and her remaining brother missing. She wakes up in Amaryllis city, now part of a circle of Slither killers.
Once in Amaryllis city, Niko’s world falls apart. Things she took for granted–that Slithers can be easily killed with the right weaponry and good luck, that clean water is precious and must be hoarded–are suddenly called into question. Niko struggles to find her place in the Rose Circle, the group of Slither killers who have adopted her, while trying to process all the new information thrown at her. At the same time, she forms a plan to get back outside Amaryllis and find her lost brother.
Kayti Nika Raet anchors the plot on Niko. As an author, she places all her eggs in one basket. Niko as a character is fully realized, possessing a broad range of emotionality and a strong, driving voice that carries the narrative forward. Niko is intense, observant and suspicious. She is shaken and vulnerable and ferocious. She is a lone wolf and a caretaker. Raet writes Niko with lovely subtlety, letting her grow and stretch over the course of the book. Niko at the end of the book is very different than she was at the beginning. She is still very much herself, but the course of events has marked her, and she is changed.
It is probably obvious that I connected to Niko’s character. Every beat of Niko’s character felt true for me because I was so much like Niko at eighteen: lost, full of bravado, failing an even more lost younger sibling, coping with unnamed and unrecognized PTSD. Raet’s writing captured a resiliency and a woundedness that is utterly complex, at once strong enough to keep going and also weak enough to be self-destructive. And, at the same time, the book is full of science fiction conceits that are intriguing. The hints dropped about the weird, haunting, body-horror Slither monsters are not resolved in this book, and are definitely interesting enough to keep me hooked. I’ll be picking up the next installment, Harm.
Most of the other characters lacked Niko’s complexity, which was one weak spot in the book. Malik, one leg of a very light love triangle, shows some depth, and as a set Norm and Lo were definitely interesting, but most of the other characters blended together. Perhaps as an extension, there are scenes where the action is somewhat unclear. Raet’s writing is typically very crisp, but sometimes I had to reread sentences to glean what happened when several characters were interacting around Niko. A less dedicated reader may have skimmed or skipped those sections altogether. One section where this happened actually turned out to be important plot-wise, but I initially missed who had upset who.
Bottom line, though, I really, really enjoyed this book. It was a fast and brutal and brilliant read, just like Niko herself. When I found out there were three other books in the series already I wanted to clear my schedule and read them all back to back.
This book is packed with diversity. It is Diverse with a capital D. The main character is a take-no-shit suffer-no-fools Black teenager, and most of the people around her are other people of color, too: brown folks, East Asian people, South Asian people, they run the gamut. There are kickass queer characters. There are characters with disabilities. Class issues are on display. Diversity is truly firing on all cylinders in Niko.
Honestly, the author’s attention to issues of diversity in both the characters and the worldbuilding is what moved this from a 3 star to a 4 star rating. It wasn’t only that diversity was present, but how it was woven into the overall book: there is great nuance present here that shows that Kayti Nika Raet thought long and hard about how diversity in fiction ought to be represented. The racial and gender diversity, for example, was presented without comment. The issues of disability became plot threads, things to dissect. Very well done.
REVIEW:
Harmony Niko is seventeen years old and trapped in a nightmarish post-apocalyptic wasteland full of pseudo-human monsters called Slithers that want to eat her and acidic rain that will kill her if she does not find shelter from it. She is responsible for keeping herself and her two younger brothers alive. But while out on a foraging run everything falls apart–she comes back to find her dilapidated house in flames, her youngest brother dead, and her remaining brother missing. She wakes up in Amaryllis city, now part of a circle of Slither killers.
Once in Amaryllis city, Niko’s world falls apart. Things she took for granted–that Slithers can be easily killed with the right weaponry and good luck, that clean water is precious and must be hoarded–are suddenly called into question. Niko struggles to find her place in the Rose Circle, the group of Slither killers who have adopted her, while trying to process all the new information thrown at her. At the same time, she forms a plan to get back outside Amaryllis and find her lost brother.
Kayti Nika Raet anchors the plot on Niko. As an author, she places all her eggs in one basket. Niko as a character is fully realized, possessing a broad range of emotionality and a strong, driving voice that carries the narrative forward. Niko is intense, observant and suspicious. She is shaken and vulnerable and ferocious. She is a lone wolf and a caretaker. Raet writes Niko with lovely subtlety, letting her grow and stretch over the course of the book. Niko at the end of the book is very different than she was at the beginning. She is still very much herself, but the course of events has marked her, and she is changed.
It is probably obvious that I connected to Niko’s character. Every beat of Niko’s character felt true for me because I was so much like Niko at eighteen: lost, full of bravado, failing an even more lost younger sibling, coping with unnamed and unrecognized PTSD. Raet’s writing captured a resiliency and a woundedness that is utterly complex, at once strong enough to keep going and also weak enough to be self-destructive. And, at the same time, the book is full of science fiction conceits that are intriguing. The hints dropped about the weird, haunting, body-horror Slither monsters are not resolved in this book, and are definitely interesting enough to keep me hooked. I’ll be picking up the next installment, Harm.
Most of the other characters lacked Niko’s complexity, which was one weak spot in the book. Malik, one leg of a very light love triangle, shows some depth, and as a set Norm and Lo were definitely interesting, but most of the other characters blended together. Perhaps as an extension, there are scenes where the action is somewhat unclear. Raet’s writing is typically very crisp, but sometimes I had to reread sentences to glean what happened when several characters were interacting around Niko. A less dedicated reader may have skimmed or skipped those sections altogether. One section where this happened actually turned out to be important plot-wise, but I initially missed who had upset who.
Bottom line, though, I really, really enjoyed this book. It was a fast and brutal and brilliant read, just like Niko herself. When I found out there were three other books in the series already I wanted to clear my schedule and read them all back to back.
February 27, 2015
Grab your shades! I’ve unearthed another shiny gem for the pile! Better bring along some acid proof clothes, shoes and your own clean water and any Slither killing weapons you may have. In a post-apocalyptic world, where only the rich and powerful are safe within the walls of the big cities, Kayti Nika Raet introduces a new heroine from the ashes of despair. Niko book one of The Outsider Chronicles is a journey through the physical, emotional and mental ruins of a world struggling to survive.
Only the elite can live afford to live in Amaryllis City. The Outsiders are left to fight for every scrap of food, and every drop of clean water, all while avoiding becoming the next meal for monsters called Slithers. Niko, only seventeen has been the sole protector and provider for her younger brothers, until the night that fire claimed her home, her family and what remained of her life. Saved by a well-trained hunter group called the Rose Circle, she discovers who and what she is, but her destiny will have to wait until she finds her missing brother. Will the powers that control Amaryllis, while holding the Outsiders down become her true worst nightmare or will the friendships and the alliances she forms lay the foundation for rebellion and survival? Will one boy teach her about trust and caring?
Let Kayti Nika Raet take you through her world as she draws a bleak picture of humanity after disaster. Her words depict the story of one warrior-fierce teen who seems to be gifted with a power that few have. Will she be the answer to the ending the murderous Slithers? Will she be able to rally the Outsiders to stand up for themselves and demand the safety afforded to the rich? Ms. Raet has created a heroine to respect, feel for and cheer on, no matter the odds stacked against her. She knows how to create a scene filled with so much tension; you can hear the sounds of eminent disaster. Fast paced action, dark emotional turmoil and the will to survive, a fresh voice in the YA post-apocalyptic /dystopian genre.
Series: The Outsiders Chronicles - Book 1
Publication Date: April 28, 2013
Publisher: Kayti Nika Raet
Genre: YA Post-Apocalyptic
Print Length: 187 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Only the elite can live afford to live in Amaryllis City. The Outsiders are left to fight for every scrap of food, and every drop of clean water, all while avoiding becoming the next meal for monsters called Slithers. Niko, only seventeen has been the sole protector and provider for her younger brothers, until the night that fire claimed her home, her family and what remained of her life. Saved by a well-trained hunter group called the Rose Circle, she discovers who and what she is, but her destiny will have to wait until she finds her missing brother. Will the powers that control Amaryllis, while holding the Outsiders down become her true worst nightmare or will the friendships and the alliances she forms lay the foundation for rebellion and survival? Will one boy teach her about trust and caring?
Let Kayti Nika Raet take you through her world as she draws a bleak picture of humanity after disaster. Her words depict the story of one warrior-fierce teen who seems to be gifted with a power that few have. Will she be the answer to the ending the murderous Slithers? Will she be able to rally the Outsiders to stand up for themselves and demand the safety afforded to the rich? Ms. Raet has created a heroine to respect, feel for and cheer on, no matter the odds stacked against her. She knows how to create a scene filled with so much tension; you can hear the sounds of eminent disaster. Fast paced action, dark emotional turmoil and the will to survive, a fresh voice in the YA post-apocalyptic /dystopian genre.
Series: The Outsiders Chronicles - Book 1
Publication Date: April 28, 2013
Publisher: Kayti Nika Raet
Genre: YA Post-Apocalyptic
Print Length: 187 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
January 5, 2015
First, Niko is a badass girl with a baseball bat, an improvised Slither killing device. I love kickass heroines and Niko has the courage and determination to hold her own in a harsh world full of terrible monsters.
Second, this is not your average post-apocalyptic young adult dystopian novel. The story line is really unique and the world building and imagination of the author really stands out. The world building is well done and the imagery is superb.
Third, there is considerable diversity among the characters, both in skin color and sexual orientation but it is not an in your face, look at me diversity. It is simply the way the world is. I really appreciated the way this was handled.
Fourth, the writing style appealed to me. The author just has a way with words that paints a picture in your mind and I found myself re-reading certain passages not because I was not understanding them but so I could savor the words a second time. I was reminded of Robin McKinley's writing style with this and I can think of only a very few authors I have read with such a talent for painting a picture with words or making even the fighting scenes flow with a certain beauty that is impossible not to admire.
Fifth, it is non-stop action from start to sudden finish (good to know there is a book two). There are few wasted descriptions or needless fillers.
Lastly, the themes of friendship, survival, and courage are all handled in a remarkable fashion.
I just can't recommend this book any more highly.
Second, this is not your average post-apocalyptic young adult dystopian novel. The story line is really unique and the world building and imagination of the author really stands out. The world building is well done and the imagery is superb.
Third, there is considerable diversity among the characters, both in skin color and sexual orientation but it is not an in your face, look at me diversity. It is simply the way the world is. I really appreciated the way this was handled.
Fourth, the writing style appealed to me. The author just has a way with words that paints a picture in your mind and I found myself re-reading certain passages not because I was not understanding them but so I could savor the words a second time. I was reminded of Robin McKinley's writing style with this and I can think of only a very few authors I have read with such a talent for painting a picture with words or making even the fighting scenes flow with a certain beauty that is impossible not to admire.
Fifth, it is non-stop action from start to sudden finish (good to know there is a book two). There are few wasted descriptions or needless fillers.
Lastly, the themes of friendship, survival, and courage are all handled in a remarkable fashion.
I just can't recommend this book any more highly.
December 14, 2015
This book is not at all what I expected from seeing the cover. Once I started reading this book, I couldn't put it down. I immediately fell in love with Niko and her feisty character. She is a true survivor with the smarts to take her far.
After losing what is left of her family, Niko is a fighter and since her brother wasn't confirmed to be dead, she is determined to find him. With her newfound friends, she has to adjust to a completely different lifestyle while training to hunt slithers.
The author did a phenomenal job developing this post apocalyptic story. Slithers are creative and wickedly developed. The acid rain that threatens everyone's very existence is equally as interesting. I found it interesting that not everyone is able to fight and kill the slithers and that only certain people are able to.
The story is well scripted with enough detail to set your imagination running wild. The descriptions were designed well and paint a picture in your head. The characters were well thought out and provided enough depth to make them realistic and believable.
As soon as I finished this book, which was hard to put down, I immediately started book 2. I just had to see what happened!
After losing what is left of her family, Niko is a fighter and since her brother wasn't confirmed to be dead, she is determined to find him. With her newfound friends, she has to adjust to a completely different lifestyle while training to hunt slithers.
The author did a phenomenal job developing this post apocalyptic story. Slithers are creative and wickedly developed. The acid rain that threatens everyone's very existence is equally as interesting. I found it interesting that not everyone is able to fight and kill the slithers and that only certain people are able to.
The story is well scripted with enough detail to set your imagination running wild. The descriptions were designed well and paint a picture in your head. The characters were well thought out and provided enough depth to make them realistic and believable.
As soon as I finished this book, which was hard to put down, I immediately started book 2. I just had to see what happened!
April 27, 2016
Read this review and more at The Bohemian Housewife Blog
I needed to read this book after reading Pale and Crimson, a short story in the same series. The world the author created is just incredible; It seriously made me antsy at some points because of the acid rain or the fact slithers were everywhere. That's another thing I love, SLITHERS. Kayti Nika Raet did such a great job with them. I mean, seriously, she did a GREAT job with them. Niko is one of those books that you just can't put down, which is a problem when you planned on reading a few chapters before bed every night. Her writing style was just smooth and even though I used my word runner with this (easier while in bed) I was never lost. I normally have to go back sometimes and make sure I got something right...not with Niko...it was just a great read. I cannot wait to read the rest of the story.
As I said, I used word runner, so I cannot comment on grammar. I don't notice those issues when I use this program. I will say that the plot is fantastic and worth the read. 5/5
I needed to read this book after reading Pale and Crimson, a short story in the same series. The world the author created is just incredible; It seriously made me antsy at some points because of the acid rain or the fact slithers were everywhere. That's another thing I love, SLITHERS. Kayti Nika Raet did such a great job with them. I mean, seriously, she did a GREAT job with them. Niko is one of those books that you just can't put down, which is a problem when you planned on reading a few chapters before bed every night. Her writing style was just smooth and even though I used my word runner with this (easier while in bed) I was never lost. I normally have to go back sometimes and make sure I got something right...not with Niko...it was just a great read. I cannot wait to read the rest of the story.
As I said, I used word runner, so I cannot comment on grammar. I don't notice those issues when I use this program. I will say that the plot is fantastic and worth the read. 5/5
February 4, 2016
*I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an HONEST review*
This was a pretty fast paced, entertaining monster story, different from what I've read before. The slithers creeped me the eff out *shudder*! I quite enjoyed it, and plan on reading the next installment. Recommended for monster lovers and readers of the dystopian genre.
Bob says: 4 strong Platypires!
This was a pretty fast paced, entertaining monster story, different from what I've read before. The slithers creeped me the eff out *shudder*! I quite enjoyed it, and plan on reading the next installment. Recommended for monster lovers and readers of the dystopian genre.
Bob says: 4 strong Platypires!
November 21, 2015
Tense, Action Packed, Gripping & Engaging! An Exciting Read! I Loved It!
August 5, 2016
***** 4.5 Cranky Stars *****
I’ve had this book on my TBR pile for some time now. It’s one of those books I always ‘meant’ to get to, but had to reprioritize for many and various reasons. I finally got to read it on my summer holiday. I’m so glad I did. This is an underrated gem and I would recommend it to any fan of the YA-post apocalyptic genre.
Niko is a seventeen year old living in a world where acid falls from the sky, coating the ground, water is contaminated, and monsters (Slithers) roam making meals of humans.
As the care-giver-provider for her two younger brothers, Niko lives ‘outside’ of the city in a harsh environment where everyone is trying to survive and get by. One night everything changes and Niko loses everything, but a destiny unfolds. She is one of the few people who can kill Slithers and as such, she is coerced into joining a circle in the big city in the hope that she can find a loved one.
There is a lively quality to this work combined with a dry, humorous wit. The pacing is spot on and had me flicking pages until I was sleep deprived. There is enough action and mystery, not to mention interesting secondary characters to keep one engrossed in what it means to be part of Niko’s world. For the record, it’s a pretty dangerous place to be no matter where you are – inside or outside the walls.
Niko is a fantastic main character. One of my pet hates in apocalyptic anything (books, films, TV shows) is when the main character has the type of innocence that gets everyone else eaten because they keep asking questions or don’t realize the monster-thing is dangerous.
This is not the case with Niko. She is smart and resilient and can put the pieces together quickly in order to survive. Her unfamiliarity, however, with ‘city manners’ and ‘conveniences’ made me laugh out loud.
I also loved the diversity in this story. It is presentation without explanation – a world full of characters that just is – and is stronger for it.
I’ve just picked up Harm, the second book in the series. Who needs sleep, right?
Highly recommended.
March 22, 2015
*4.5*
The pace of book was great right throughout, there weren't moments I felt the story was lingering or that there were fillers added to gain more pages. The novel's tempo felt like it wasn't a second thought that you sometimes get with author's first novels, instead it felt as if Raet knew from the beginning exactly what and how she wanted everything to be and no second guessing was done. Another great, less obvious trait, that goes hand-in-hand with a theme I found in the book; Independent stubbornness that gets it done, was clear in Raet's writing style.
All the characters are well-written and well-rounded, even if they weren't main characters, you can see they weren't just added without purpose.
Niko is the...(I may not say the word, so?) H-Balls amazingly coolest chick ever! If I could be her friend - even in this setting - Hell yeah, bring it! With such a bad-A by your side, you'll never worry about anything! And she is damn HOT! (I'm not a pedo, but come on, she is the girl you disliked in high school for being epic without needing to impress everyone.) I absolutely love her.
Ben is just great; I can't wait to read more of him. He's not like the average guys and girls you fall in love with in books. He feels very real with imperfect perfection that weren't created by false ideas of what most people do and say is 'normal'. He reminded me of my partner and the way we act, and that made me want to punch, kiss and let him be my forever crush. I loved his odd chemistry with Niko, even if I wished she could just see it!
I need to add this, but Mabel reminded me of the old lady from Brave...just because she is weird. I know the comparison is odd, but got that vibe and I think she was a cute little character to add some whimsicality in this godforsaken world, where I most likely would've been killed in on day one, because I'm a huge wussy.
My second favourite scene was the first encounter with the bathroom (toilet)! Best thing ever! I choked on my Oreo when I read it and keep chuckling at the memory. Great comic relief throughout the book is subtle enough to not defer from the main tone and setting of the book.
My favourite scene was Niko's attempt to remove a particular character's eyes...I'm weird like that.
As a gamer I think this would be amazing as a survival strategy game. Fighting Slithers, surviving the rain, getting supplies and kicking A as Niko would be amazing! Just imagine it for a moment? Good, I have goosebumps just with the thought of that!
Raet is a great author with a strong voice and I got pulled in right away. I can't wait to read the rest of the series and see where Raet will be taking us next.
But seriously, I really want this as a game. *puppy eyes* Please make it happen?
The pace of book was great right throughout, there weren't moments I felt the story was lingering or that there were fillers added to gain more pages. The novel's tempo felt like it wasn't a second thought that you sometimes get with author's first novels, instead it felt as if Raet knew from the beginning exactly what and how she wanted everything to be and no second guessing was done. Another great, less obvious trait, that goes hand-in-hand with a theme I found in the book; Independent stubbornness that gets it done, was clear in Raet's writing style.
All the characters are well-written and well-rounded, even if they weren't main characters, you can see they weren't just added without purpose.
Niko is the...(I may not say the word, so?) H-Balls amazingly coolest chick ever! If I could be her friend - even in this setting - Hell yeah, bring it! With such a bad-A by your side, you'll never worry about anything! And she is damn HOT! (I'm not a pedo, but come on, she is the girl you disliked in high school for being epic without needing to impress everyone.) I absolutely love her.
Ben is just great; I can't wait to read more of him. He's not like the average guys and girls you fall in love with in books. He feels very real with imperfect perfection that weren't created by false ideas of what most people do and say is 'normal'. He reminded me of my partner and the way we act, and that made me want to punch, kiss and let him be my forever crush. I loved his odd chemistry with Niko, even if I wished she could just see it!
I need to add this, but Mabel reminded me of the old lady from Brave...just because she is weird. I know the comparison is odd, but got that vibe and I think she was a cute little character to add some whimsicality in this godforsaken world, where I most likely would've been killed in on day one, because I'm a huge wussy.
My second favourite scene was the first encounter with the bathroom (toilet)! Best thing ever! I choked on my Oreo when I read it and keep chuckling at the memory. Great comic relief throughout the book is subtle enough to not defer from the main tone and setting of the book.
My favourite scene was Niko's attempt to remove a particular character's eyes...I'm weird like that.
As a gamer I think this would be amazing as a survival strategy game. Fighting Slithers, surviving the rain, getting supplies and kicking A as Niko would be amazing! Just imagine it for a moment? Good, I have goosebumps just with the thought of that!
Raet is a great author with a strong voice and I got pulled in right away. I can't wait to read the rest of the series and see where Raet will be taking us next.
But seriously, I really want this as a game. *puppy eyes* Please make it happen?
January 21, 2014
Niko lives in a world where natural water, including rain, burns like acid. On top of that, there are monstrous creatures called Slithers which attack and eat people. Because of this, nearly everyone lives in fear and poverty and constant desperation for clean water. However Niko, an orphan, does a pretty good job taking care of her two brothers. She goes out on clear days looking for food and killing any Slithers who catch sight of her. Until one day she comes home to see that her house is on fire. One brother has died and the other is missing, and she's taken in by "the Rose circle", a group of teens who live in an extravagant walled city and whose job it is to kill Slithers. There she discovers that she's special, because only certain people have the ability to hunt and kill Slithers.
I downloaded this book when it was free, and I thought it was really good. The main driving force in this story is that Niko wants to find her missing brother, which I'll admit wasn't the most interesting to me (which is why I gave it 4 stars instead of 5, it's a matter of personal preference). But the world is well fleshed-out and all the little things that happened between her search for her brother were interesting enough for me to still find the story enjoyable. The plot twists truly were surprising, and the depth of the story writing was on-par with any "professional" author. Not to mention it was refreshing to see that not only was the main character a POC, but it was a teen novel that didn't have a romance/love triangle as the main plot.
Since this wasn't professionally published there are some spelling/grammar mistakes, but those are easy to get over. The world that Raet created is complex and captivating, her monsters are actually really scary, and her characters are a breath of fresh air. I would 100% recommend Niko to anyone, and I can't wait for a sequel.
I downloaded this book when it was free, and I thought it was really good. The main driving force in this story is that Niko wants to find her missing brother, which I'll admit wasn't the most interesting to me (which is why I gave it 4 stars instead of 5, it's a matter of personal preference). But the world is well fleshed-out and all the little things that happened between her search for her brother were interesting enough for me to still find the story enjoyable. The plot twists truly were surprising, and the depth of the story writing was on-par with any "professional" author. Not to mention it was refreshing to see that not only was the main character a POC, but it was a teen novel that didn't have a romance/love triangle as the main plot.
Since this wasn't professionally published there are some spelling/grammar mistakes, but those are easy to get over. The world that Raet created is complex and captivating, her monsters are actually really scary, and her characters are a breath of fresh air. I would 100% recommend Niko to anyone, and I can't wait for a sequel.
March 29, 2015
I'm so glad I read this. I knew from the synopsis that it was going to be a good read. I usually tend to steer toward romance but my love of all things weird and creepy wouldn't allow me to overlook Niko.
The first thing that caught my attention were the descriptions the author used. They were so well done. Sometimes authors overdo it on the details to try to get the reader to feel like they are apart of the story but this author got it right. I literally cringed at some of the uses of onomatopoeia, which was awesome. There was a perfect mix of suspense and action, so I was never bored. The author did a great job of making the reader empathize with Niko. Niko was tough, she risked her life daily to provide for her brothers and took on the role of mother. Seemingly, her only weakness is her family, but her other vulnerabilities were exposed throughout the book. Her behavior was comical as she was re-integrated into "normal" society behind the city walls, but she never forgot who she was and her character felt most at home in the slums, with "ordinary" citizens and not the elite.
This book took me out of my comfort zone and now that I've once again gotten a taste dystopia and a new favorite heroine, I'm hooked. The ending left me with just enough unanswered questions and anxiety to keep me going. I will definitely read this entire series.
The first thing that caught my attention were the descriptions the author used. They were so well done. Sometimes authors overdo it on the details to try to get the reader to feel like they are apart of the story but this author got it right. I literally cringed at some of the uses of onomatopoeia, which was awesome. There was a perfect mix of suspense and action, so I was never bored. The author did a great job of making the reader empathize with Niko. Niko was tough, she risked her life daily to provide for her brothers and took on the role of mother. Seemingly, her only weakness is her family, but her other vulnerabilities were exposed throughout the book. Her behavior was comical as she was re-integrated into "normal" society behind the city walls, but she never forgot who she was and her character felt most at home in the slums, with "ordinary" citizens and not the elite.
This book took me out of my comfort zone and now that I've once again gotten a taste dystopia and a new favorite heroine, I'm hooked. The ending left me with just enough unanswered questions and anxiety to keep me going. I will definitely read this entire series.
April 25, 2015
O.M.G. Loved this original gem.
Is Niko a badass or what?! Seriously. I devoured this book, mostly for its unique premise, but nothing captivates me more than a wonderfully written protagonist and her supporting characters.
There are many items on my checklist to rate a book with five stars. This book easily hit every mark—storytelling/writing was engaging and seamless, captivating me throughout! As I’ve already mentioned, the characters were written very well, making it easy to identify and root for them. With an intriguing premise, created with the author’s superb world building, this first in the series really hit the mark for me! Lastly, this well-paced story kept me on my toes with drama, action, and an intense mission in pursuit of Niko’s missing brother.
My skin crawled a bit with every mention of acid rain and slithers, which to me, just means Ms. Raet did her job well. Can’t wait to see what’s next from this author.
Is Niko a badass or what?! Seriously. I devoured this book, mostly for its unique premise, but nothing captivates me more than a wonderfully written protagonist and her supporting characters.
There are many items on my checklist to rate a book with five stars. This book easily hit every mark—storytelling/writing was engaging and seamless, captivating me throughout! As I’ve already mentioned, the characters were written very well, making it easy to identify and root for them. With an intriguing premise, created with the author’s superb world building, this first in the series really hit the mark for me! Lastly, this well-paced story kept me on my toes with drama, action, and an intense mission in pursuit of Niko’s missing brother.
My skin crawled a bit with every mention of acid rain and slithers, which to me, just means Ms. Raet did her job well. Can’t wait to see what’s next from this author.
July 10, 2016
Gritty and compelling, this is the story of a bleak world expertly described by a seventeen year old orphan who must take care of her two younger brothers. Niko is resourceful and brave and thrust into a group of elite fighters put together by a mysterious "Director." Her family is murdered by Slithers, mutant creatures that attack and eat their prey. Niko is a kick-ass, take no prisoners type of girl. I loved the diversity of the book, the well-crafted post apocalyptic world. You are dropped right into the heart of the story, into Niko's shoes. The narrative is action-packed, with a cinematic feel to its descriptions. Well written, the world building excellent, author Kayti Nika Raet weaves a thrilling story of a girl's struggle to survive in a world filled with acid rain and zombie-like monsters that leave no choice but kill or be killed.
February 13, 2015
Try to imagine living where acid rain falls from the sky, the bodies of the dead are an everyday occurrence on the streets, and human like, grotesque, slithers are a constant danger. Then picture Niko a young woman who, while trying to find food, is hunted by one of these menacing creatures while getting food for her two younger brother. She comes home to find a fire has take both of their lives, is knocked out cold, and wakes up in a cylinder full of blue liquid…yes she is having a bad day but that is only the beginning of this wildly imaginative and wicked enjoyable story. �Kayti Nika Raet knock it out of the park with this unique story of suspense mixed with danger and intrigue. She has created a strong memorable characters. This story is a delight you don’t want to miss it.
May 19, 2017
I'm not normally one to write reviews about books I have read, mostly because I have trouble finding the correct words to describe how I feel about the book itself and also to make sure I don't spoil anything. But after talking with the author herself when I bought this book, and the second which I haven't read yet, I felt I ought to write a review about it because of how blown away I was.
I picked up this book to distract me from the heat and boredom that is most of a farmer's market, for the farmers anyway, and I figured it would get me through the entire market. Lo and behold 2 hours later and I'm buying the second one because I can't get enough of the world and the market still isn't over. So the book was amazing enough that I couldn't stop reading, might have lost a few customers from not paying attention....my bad, until the very last page.
The characters are interesting and very diverse, Niko herself being an ultra bad*** who doesn't take anybody's crap and somehow manages to seem confident even in an entirely confusing and new, for her, environment of relative peace and abundance partway through the book. I would hope that I would be able to show the same. Some of the other characters are a little forgettable but those characters seem to mostly be there to move the plot and drop hints about the future rather then be full members of the cast. The sense of humor was dry a lot of the times (Naming weapons drenched in blood cutesy little names), unexpected but adored in my opinion. To be honest I've mostly given up on the post-apocalypse genre because they all read the same and it bored me, but man am I happy I decided to take a chance. I'm eagerly waiting to pop open the next novel and read through it.
In my opinion though, the slithers could use just a hint more explanation, although I imagine that would come later, but the description for them reminds me a lot of those wall crawling things with exposed brain from Resident Evil, but much more human and with hair....which somehow makes them that much creepier. A+ on the descriptions in this book, made it easy on the imagination to roll the movie in my head.
Complaints: Don't really have too many of them, but I suppose one of the largest that I do have is that the first couple of chapters, that the story depends on, don't go into enough detail about her daily life with her brothers and thus doesn't quite give them their unique characters which makes it hard to feel for them or her. A couple more days of her going about her daily life and some interactions between the siblings would have gone a long way towards helping build her personality and motivations. But given how good the rest of the book is, seriously not going to disrupt your reading experience, maybe make you a little sadder that you don't get more of an idea of how she lives Outside.
I only noticed one very minor grammatical error in the entire book. Now whether that is because there is only one and the editor gets a lot of credit, or because the book entranced my so much that I didn't notice any more after it is the question. I recommend this book very very highly to those who like the genre and are looking for a brand new take on it, or those just looking for an interesting little book to pass the time for them. It's definitely worth a look in my opinion~
I picked up this book to distract me from the heat and boredom that is most of a farmer's market, for the farmers anyway, and I figured it would get me through the entire market. Lo and behold 2 hours later and I'm buying the second one because I can't get enough of the world and the market still isn't over. So the book was amazing enough that I couldn't stop reading, might have lost a few customers from not paying attention....my bad, until the very last page.
The characters are interesting and very diverse, Niko herself being an ultra bad*** who doesn't take anybody's crap and somehow manages to seem confident even in an entirely confusing and new, for her, environment of relative peace and abundance partway through the book. I would hope that I would be able to show the same. Some of the other characters are a little forgettable but those characters seem to mostly be there to move the plot and drop hints about the future rather then be full members of the cast. The sense of humor was dry a lot of the times (Naming weapons drenched in blood cutesy little names), unexpected but adored in my opinion. To be honest I've mostly given up on the post-apocalypse genre because they all read the same and it bored me, but man am I happy I decided to take a chance. I'm eagerly waiting to pop open the next novel and read through it.
In my opinion though, the slithers could use just a hint more explanation, although I imagine that would come later, but the description for them reminds me a lot of those wall crawling things with exposed brain from Resident Evil, but much more human and with hair....which somehow makes them that much creepier. A+ on the descriptions in this book, made it easy on the imagination to roll the movie in my head.
Complaints: Don't really have too many of them, but I suppose one of the largest that I do have is that the first couple of chapters, that the story depends on, don't go into enough detail about her daily life with her brothers and thus doesn't quite give them their unique characters which makes it hard to feel for them or her. A couple more days of her going about her daily life and some interactions between the siblings would have gone a long way towards helping build her personality and motivations. But given how good the rest of the book is, seriously not going to disrupt your reading experience, maybe make you a little sadder that you don't get more of an idea of how she lives Outside.
I only noticed one very minor grammatical error in the entire book. Now whether that is because there is only one and the editor gets a lot of credit, or because the book entranced my so much that I didn't notice any more after it is the question. I recommend this book very very highly to those who like the genre and are looking for a brand new take on it, or those just looking for an interesting little book to pass the time for them. It's definitely worth a look in my opinion~
January 29, 2015
Overall rating 4.5/5 stars (Scribd version)
Niko is Raet's first installment of The Outsider Chronicles series, and it falls into the YA dystopian, kick-ass female lead genre, which is fine by me. Niko lives in a broken future where there is acid rain that has made water a scarce resource and where heart-eating, pale-faced creatures with long claws called Slithers hunt people. Most people cannot kill Slithers, though, but a few, like Niko, can.
After a fire destroys her home in the unprotected lands outside of the cities and leaves her without her two younger brothers, Niko finds herself saved by a group of Slither hunters, the Rose Circle. The Circle works to protect residents of Amaryllis City from Slithers and have been watching her for a while.
Growing up outside of the City has made Niko a fierce fighter and someone who doesn't play by the rules, so there's a good amount of tension between who she is expected to be and who she is once she joins the Circle. And, she's a bit of an odd duck in the Big City because she doesn't really know the rules, or play by them. To top it off, she is a unique brand of Slither hunter that others in the City want to learn more about, by whatever means necessary. She ventures outside of the City with a member of the Circle, only to be met with difficulties getting back, but she's just not a city girl. Niko eventually has a bit of a family reunion and escapes the City, and this sets the stage for the next installment, Harm.
1. Creativity 5/5 stars
There is much that is familiar in this book, such as a dystopian future where people must compete to survive, battle the elements and protect themselves from creatures. However, the Slithers are some pretty darned creepy unique creatures who make nicely creative enemy, part horror film, part bad dream. And the idea that not everyone can kill Slithers puts a nice spin on the ability of everyone in this world to survive.
2. Craft 4/5 stars
Raet is completely adept at writing scenes, dialogue, and action. She shines at the action part, especially, as she crafts an action-driven plot in a completely believable way given the setting, characters and enemies at play. Her descriptions are very straightforward, and she reveals background information, characters, and surroundings through the action rather than through exposition. There's a few spots here and there where you get a little mixed up about what is happening because it seems like something very minor is missing or was skipped, but overall, Raet's craft is very sound.
3. Characters 4/5 stars
Raet has created a believable, independent-minded, young adult bent on survival in Niko. She can take care of herself and proves it many times, and she fights against those who try to pigeonhole or suppress her. She's likable and wields a bat with some nails in it as her main weapon against the Slithers, and she is a bit naive in that particular way that many teens are. A reader ends up rooting for her to accomplish what she has set out to do. Some of the members of the Rose Circle are a bit under-developed, and their motivations for the relationships they start with each other and Niko are somewhat foggy. And the Director of the Circle remains a bit fuzzy. However, Ben emerges from the fuzzy Rose Circle as a likable, smart guy as he plays a significant role in the latter part of the book and becomes a main player Harm.
4. Plot 4.5/5 stars
The plot centers around Niko's attempts to find her identity among the Rose circle and find the brother she is convinced survived the fire in the opening of the book. There's betrayal, some love interests of all kinds, and plenty of slashing, bashing and killing of Slithers by male and female characters alike. There's a thread about the Rose Circle going rogue, but that's not fully developed here. As with many first books in a series, only a few of the problems established are resolved, and there is no resolution, only a cliffhanger, literally.
5. Organization 4/5
This is a straightforward action-driven book, which I greatly appreciated. We stick with Niko's point of view throughout and follow her on an adventure in the City and the on the Outside.
6. Technicalities 2/5
Technical issues are the only gripe I had with this book. There were plenty of grammatical errors, two of which came up quite a bit: run-on sentences and the lack of a comma when coordinating conjunctions joined two independent clauses. This book would benefit from a good proofreading. Luckily, Niko was engaging and enjoyable enough to make it easy to ignore these issues, at least for me.
And a final word: I am so glad that, unlike 30 years ago, there is a wealth of books out there now with heroines like Niko for girls to read when they get to that uncertain age when they are trying to figure out who they are. Niko can bash in the head of a horrific monster who's ready to devour her heart. Some part of every girl should know how to do that, at least figuratively.
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Niko is Raet's first installment of The Outsider Chronicles series, and it falls into the YA dystopian, kick-ass female lead genre, which is fine by me. Niko lives in a broken future where there is acid rain that has made water a scarce resource and where heart-eating, pale-faced creatures with long claws called Slithers hunt people. Most people cannot kill Slithers, though, but a few, like Niko, can.
After a fire destroys her home in the unprotected lands outside of the cities and leaves her without her two younger brothers, Niko finds herself saved by a group of Slither hunters, the Rose Circle. The Circle works to protect residents of Amaryllis City from Slithers and have been watching her for a while.
Growing up outside of the City has made Niko a fierce fighter and someone who doesn't play by the rules, so there's a good amount of tension between who she is expected to be and who she is once she joins the Circle. And, she's a bit of an odd duck in the Big City because she doesn't really know the rules, or play by them. To top it off, she is a unique brand of Slither hunter that others in the City want to learn more about, by whatever means necessary. She ventures outside of the City with a member of the Circle, only to be met with difficulties getting back, but she's just not a city girl. Niko eventually has a bit of a family reunion and escapes the City, and this sets the stage for the next installment, Harm.
1. Creativity 5/5 stars
There is much that is familiar in this book, such as a dystopian future where people must compete to survive, battle the elements and protect themselves from creatures. However, the Slithers are some pretty darned creepy unique creatures who make nicely creative enemy, part horror film, part bad dream. And the idea that not everyone can kill Slithers puts a nice spin on the ability of everyone in this world to survive.
2. Craft 4/5 stars
Raet is completely adept at writing scenes, dialogue, and action. She shines at the action part, especially, as she crafts an action-driven plot in a completely believable way given the setting, characters and enemies at play. Her descriptions are very straightforward, and she reveals background information, characters, and surroundings through the action rather than through exposition. There's a few spots here and there where you get a little mixed up about what is happening because it seems like something very minor is missing or was skipped, but overall, Raet's craft is very sound.
3. Characters 4/5 stars
Raet has created a believable, independent-minded, young adult bent on survival in Niko. She can take care of herself and proves it many times, and she fights against those who try to pigeonhole or suppress her. She's likable and wields a bat with some nails in it as her main weapon against the Slithers, and she is a bit naive in that particular way that many teens are. A reader ends up rooting for her to accomplish what she has set out to do. Some of the members of the Rose Circle are a bit under-developed, and their motivations for the relationships they start with each other and Niko are somewhat foggy. And the Director of the Circle remains a bit fuzzy. However, Ben emerges from the fuzzy Rose Circle as a likable, smart guy as he plays a significant role in the latter part of the book and becomes a main player Harm.
4. Plot 4.5/5 stars
The plot centers around Niko's attempts to find her identity among the Rose circle and find the brother she is convinced survived the fire in the opening of the book. There's betrayal, some love interests of all kinds, and plenty of slashing, bashing and killing of Slithers by male and female characters alike. There's a thread about the Rose Circle going rogue, but that's not fully developed here. As with many first books in a series, only a few of the problems established are resolved, and there is no resolution, only a cliffhanger, literally.
5. Organization 4/5
This is a straightforward action-driven book, which I greatly appreciated. We stick with Niko's point of view throughout and follow her on an adventure in the City and the on the Outside.
6. Technicalities 2/5
Technical issues are the only gripe I had with this book. There were plenty of grammatical errors, two of which came up quite a bit: run-on sentences and the lack of a comma when coordinating conjunctions joined two independent clauses. This book would benefit from a good proofreading. Luckily, Niko was engaging and enjoyable enough to make it easy to ignore these issues, at least for me.
And a final word: I am so glad that, unlike 30 years ago, there is a wealth of books out there now with heroines like Niko for girls to read when they get to that uncertain age when they are trying to figure out who they are. Niko can bash in the head of a horrific monster who's ready to devour her heart. Some part of every girl should know how to do that, at least figuratively.
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September 23, 2014
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
So, I feel like I need to start this review off with some disclosure: while this book had a unique plot and was really interesting, it's rating did get knocked down for me upfront just because of some of the distracting punctuation problems. I normally try not to mark books down for things like grammar and formatting (because I know sometimes they just sneak past) but there were a number of areas in this book where commas were needed, periods were needed, and it was generally hard to read because punctuation wasn't handled properly. When the editing gets in the way of how readable a book is, it makes it less enjoyable, thus the lower rating. The good news there is editing is one of the easiest things to fix, so later editions may not have the problems I encounter.
Plot wise, I thought the story was interesting. The deadly properties of water in this world pose some unique threats, although I'm not sure how plausible it is from a scientific basis. The explanation about why the rain was so deadly felt a little hand-waved to me, but it was executed well, and I liked how people adapted in this society. The characters were diverse, although some of the romantic elements between them felt a bit...I guess unrealistic? I felt like maybe in this society relationships were handled a little differently, or should have been handled differently, but I didn't have much to really help me understand that side of life. I guess I questioned how Niko should handle her interactions with the guys when her society is about survival. How would people deal with feelings and affection and kissing? Has it changed from our society? I felt like there were some unanswered questions there.
The Slithers and the plot around them added some twists, and I did want to read more by the time I reached the end. The pacing of the book was good, although I did wish the book was longer. It didn't feel entirely necessary to stop at the cliffhanger, but that's just me. I'm not a fan of cliffhangers like that.
Overall, I did like the story, but there were small things around the way that were distracting from it, if that makes sense. The plot was good, and the transitions were nice, which could make a strong story, but the punctuation tripped me up and then it made it feel like a beta read. The characters were interesting, and I wanted to get to know them, which was great, but then the romance felt strange and sometimes forced. The world felt unique, yet it wasn't quite fleshed out enough to feel believable. Because of these things, I would probably just put this book in a "too-soon" pile. It's not bad, but it needs some time to get edited and polished before it can stand up to it's competition.
So, I feel like I need to start this review off with some disclosure: while this book had a unique plot and was really interesting, it's rating did get knocked down for me upfront just because of some of the distracting punctuation problems. I normally try not to mark books down for things like grammar and formatting (because I know sometimes they just sneak past) but there were a number of areas in this book where commas were needed, periods were needed, and it was generally hard to read because punctuation wasn't handled properly. When the editing gets in the way of how readable a book is, it makes it less enjoyable, thus the lower rating. The good news there is editing is one of the easiest things to fix, so later editions may not have the problems I encounter.
Plot wise, I thought the story was interesting. The deadly properties of water in this world pose some unique threats, although I'm not sure how plausible it is from a scientific basis. The explanation about why the rain was so deadly felt a little hand-waved to me, but it was executed well, and I liked how people adapted in this society. The characters were diverse, although some of the romantic elements between them felt a bit...I guess unrealistic? I felt like maybe in this society relationships were handled a little differently, or should have been handled differently, but I didn't have much to really help me understand that side of life. I guess I questioned how Niko should handle her interactions with the guys when her society is about survival. How would people deal with feelings and affection and kissing? Has it changed from our society? I felt like there were some unanswered questions there.
The Slithers and the plot around them added some twists, and I did want to read more by the time I reached the end. The pacing of the book was good, although I did wish the book was longer. It didn't feel entirely necessary to stop at the cliffhanger, but that's just me. I'm not a fan of cliffhangers like that.
Overall, I did like the story, but there were small things around the way that were distracting from it, if that makes sense. The plot was good, and the transitions were nice, which could make a strong story, but the punctuation tripped me up and then it made it feel like a beta read. The characters were interesting, and I wanted to get to know them, which was great, but then the romance felt strange and sometimes forced. The world felt unique, yet it wasn't quite fleshed out enough to feel believable. Because of these things, I would probably just put this book in a "too-soon" pile. It's not bad, but it needs some time to get edited and polished before it can stand up to it's competition.
December 7, 2014
I received a review copy of this book for my stop on the blog tour at Donnie Darko Girl.
First of all, I'd just like to say that I'm thrilled to know Niko is the first in a five book series, The Outsider Chronicles. It can be almost painful not knowing if a book I'm reading is going to be a standalone, a trilogy, or a series. Niko offers up a unique look at a post-apocalyptic world with characters who now feel like family to me, and I'm looking forward to continuing this series.
In the beginning, Niko faces loss - she comes home from scavenging to find one brother is dead while the other is missing, and her house is still on fire. She's seventeen and has been taking care of her brothers by herself after her parents died. Everything she's done has been to keep them alive and safe. The way her brother died was brutal. I felt Niko's pain and desperation right through my Kindle.
She's rescued by the Rose Circle, a group of Slither hunters, and they want her to become a member of their group. She agrees only if they help her find her little brother. They say they will, but I had strange feelings about them, wondering if they could really be trusted.
I love Niko - she's everything I could ever want in a female lead character. She's brave and strong but still caring. You don't have to be an uncaring person to be strong - in fact, I think it shows a certain kind of strength to be able to retain characteristics like that under the kind of circumstances she's facing.
I love the fact that Raet has mixed an environmental factor with the acid rain and a supernatural factor with the Slithers to create this post-apocalyptic landscape. People can't trust and even fear water - the most important resource we must have to survive. It has to be treated in order to drink it without it killing you. The Slithers are truly terrifying monsters - they're kind of human but with multicolored eyes and claws. They want to rip your heart out of your chest and eat it. Literally.
I love the Rose Circle - they're like a family and make a great team in hunting down and killing the Slithers. No matter what, Niko is determined to find her brother. She feels lost without him. She's lost her parents and her other brother in death, and now she only has her missing brother to hold on to.
Raet has introduced me to a world I want to know more about and characters with whom I want to spend more time. Niko as a novel is an amazing and compelling story I couldn't put down. I'm looking forward to reading the next installment.
First of all, I'd just like to say that I'm thrilled to know Niko is the first in a five book series, The Outsider Chronicles. It can be almost painful not knowing if a book I'm reading is going to be a standalone, a trilogy, or a series. Niko offers up a unique look at a post-apocalyptic world with characters who now feel like family to me, and I'm looking forward to continuing this series.
In the beginning, Niko faces loss - she comes home from scavenging to find one brother is dead while the other is missing, and her house is still on fire. She's seventeen and has been taking care of her brothers by herself after her parents died. Everything she's done has been to keep them alive and safe. The way her brother died was brutal. I felt Niko's pain and desperation right through my Kindle.
She's rescued by the Rose Circle, a group of Slither hunters, and they want her to become a member of their group. She agrees only if they help her find her little brother. They say they will, but I had strange feelings about them, wondering if they could really be trusted.
I love Niko - she's everything I could ever want in a female lead character. She's brave and strong but still caring. You don't have to be an uncaring person to be strong - in fact, I think it shows a certain kind of strength to be able to retain characteristics like that under the kind of circumstances she's facing.
I love the fact that Raet has mixed an environmental factor with the acid rain and a supernatural factor with the Slithers to create this post-apocalyptic landscape. People can't trust and even fear water - the most important resource we must have to survive. It has to be treated in order to drink it without it killing you. The Slithers are truly terrifying monsters - they're kind of human but with multicolored eyes and claws. They want to rip your heart out of your chest and eat it. Literally.
I love the Rose Circle - they're like a family and make a great team in hunting down and killing the Slithers. No matter what, Niko is determined to find her brother. She feels lost without him. She's lost her parents and her other brother in death, and now she only has her missing brother to hold on to.
Raet has introduced me to a world I want to know more about and characters with whom I want to spend more time. Niko as a novel is an amazing and compelling story I couldn't put down. I'm looking forward to reading the next installment.
March 6, 2016
The Earth is broken.
Acid rain falls from the skies and murderous monsters roam the land, feasting on human hearts.
To survive, you have to be strong, fast, and alert every minute of every day.
Welcome to Niko's world: It's not a nice place.
Author Kayti Nika Raet has created an engaging heroine in "Niko," the first book in her "Outsider" series. Harmony Niko is only 17 but, armed with a nail-studded baseball bat and an uncanny ability to kill Slithers - humanoid monsters that prey on the weak, the slow, and the young - she and her two younger brothers are surviving life Outside the heavily guarded walls of Amaryllis City. In their world, clean water is scarce, food even scarcer, and you can't count on anyone else for help when things go wrong.
And things do go wrong.
Really wrong.
Right from the start.
It's not my intention to delve very deeply into the plot, but I will say that Niko (she prefers going by her last name) finds herself in mortal danger on Page One and the action never lets up throughout the book. The narrative is straightforward and is enhanced by Raet's writing, which often borders on the poetic especially when she is describing Niko's world. The fight scenes - and there are quite a few - are handled nicely and, in addition to Niko, the characters are very well rendered.
Raet also demonstrates impressive world-building skills; imagining a planet on which that which does not kill you today may very well kill you tomorrow.
If the rain doesn't kill you first.
This novel is more than a simple dystopian adventure, however. Like all good stories, it brings important issues to light.
What, for example, would you do to help those in need? Especially if, by helping them, you are knowingly putting your own life at risk.
How strong are the bonds of family?
How much can you trust those you know?
Even if they are seemingly on your side.
To whom, or to what cause, are you loyal; who or what is worthy of your allegiance?
What are you willing to sacrifice "for the greater good?"
And who decides just what that "greater good" is?
Interesting - and important - questions that run like an undercurrent through this novel as Raet's young heroine tries make her way in a broken world.
Full of high adventure in a wildly imaginative setting that is populated with intriguing characters, "Niko" is an excellent novel and one that I highly recommend.
Acid rain falls from the skies and murderous monsters roam the land, feasting on human hearts.
To survive, you have to be strong, fast, and alert every minute of every day.
Welcome to Niko's world: It's not a nice place.
Author Kayti Nika Raet has created an engaging heroine in "Niko," the first book in her "Outsider" series. Harmony Niko is only 17 but, armed with a nail-studded baseball bat and an uncanny ability to kill Slithers - humanoid monsters that prey on the weak, the slow, and the young - she and her two younger brothers are surviving life Outside the heavily guarded walls of Amaryllis City. In their world, clean water is scarce, food even scarcer, and you can't count on anyone else for help when things go wrong.
And things do go wrong.
Really wrong.
Right from the start.
It's not my intention to delve very deeply into the plot, but I will say that Niko (she prefers going by her last name) finds herself in mortal danger on Page One and the action never lets up throughout the book. The narrative is straightforward and is enhanced by Raet's writing, which often borders on the poetic especially when she is describing Niko's world. The fight scenes - and there are quite a few - are handled nicely and, in addition to Niko, the characters are very well rendered.
Raet also demonstrates impressive world-building skills; imagining a planet on which that which does not kill you today may very well kill you tomorrow.
If the rain doesn't kill you first.
This novel is more than a simple dystopian adventure, however. Like all good stories, it brings important issues to light.
What, for example, would you do to help those in need? Especially if, by helping them, you are knowingly putting your own life at risk.
How strong are the bonds of family?
How much can you trust those you know?
Even if they are seemingly on your side.
To whom, or to what cause, are you loyal; who or what is worthy of your allegiance?
What are you willing to sacrifice "for the greater good?"
And who decides just what that "greater good" is?
Interesting - and important - questions that run like an undercurrent through this novel as Raet's young heroine tries make her way in a broken world.
Full of high adventure in a wildly imaginative setting that is populated with intriguing characters, "Niko" is an excellent novel and one that I highly recommend.
September 4, 2015
Niko: Outsider Chronicals Book 1
Kayti Nika Raet
Five stars~Outstanding ☆☆☆☆☆
With this series, Kayti Nika Raet quickly became one of my favorite new authors. But first, let us cover the basics. The cover art is superb and the title is more than fitting as book 1 introduces the reader to the world and character of Niko, as well as her past and current circumstance.
Niko takes place in post-apocalyptic earth some 80 years into the future where survival means avoiding monsters called slithers, acid rain, as well as navigating the societal hierarchy of class control in a "survival of the fittest and most resourceful" sort of enviroment.
Niko, (the novel and character) from the beginning of the first paragraph draws the reader in with a fast paced, breathtaking encounter with a deadly slither, and the pace never really slows down. I found myself entrenched with Niko and her story and immediately jumped on the ride and was able to completely lose myself in Niko's world. Originally, I saw Niko as a character mix of the female renegades of the Hunger Games and the Walking Dead, but it just wouldn't do Niko justice to compare her to pop culture icons; she deserves her own spotlight. If you enjoy a strong female lead character with an air of humility while exuding brazen power, you will fall for Niko, too. Niko is taking on a tough and unforgiving world alone and you will want to be right by her side.
My only cristism of Niko would be the numerous typographical errors throughout the novel. Though it wasn't enough to draw my attention away from the story, it was an unfortunate and unnecessary distraction.
Kayti is one of those writers that has the perfect balance of details and action so the reader is not jumping through paragraphs of detail. Rather, I found myself trying to keep pace with the spine tingling action which was refreshing as well as pleasantly surprising. I found myself thoroughly engorged and satisfied with the sustanance of Niko. Easily comparable to a five course, five star meal that you happen upon without breaking the bank. It was the best novel I have had the pleasure of digesting in quite awhile. If you enjoy action packed reading with great characters and storylines, then read it, you won't regret it.
Kayti Nika Raet
Five stars~Outstanding ☆☆☆☆☆
With this series, Kayti Nika Raet quickly became one of my favorite new authors. But first, let us cover the basics. The cover art is superb and the title is more than fitting as book 1 introduces the reader to the world and character of Niko, as well as her past and current circumstance.
Niko takes place in post-apocalyptic earth some 80 years into the future where survival means avoiding monsters called slithers, acid rain, as well as navigating the societal hierarchy of class control in a "survival of the fittest and most resourceful" sort of enviroment.
Niko, (the novel and character) from the beginning of the first paragraph draws the reader in with a fast paced, breathtaking encounter with a deadly slither, and the pace never really slows down. I found myself entrenched with Niko and her story and immediately jumped on the ride and was able to completely lose myself in Niko's world. Originally, I saw Niko as a character mix of the female renegades of the Hunger Games and the Walking Dead, but it just wouldn't do Niko justice to compare her to pop culture icons; she deserves her own spotlight. If you enjoy a strong female lead character with an air of humility while exuding brazen power, you will fall for Niko, too. Niko is taking on a tough and unforgiving world alone and you will want to be right by her side.
My only cristism of Niko would be the numerous typographical errors throughout the novel. Though it wasn't enough to draw my attention away from the story, it was an unfortunate and unnecessary distraction.
Kayti is one of those writers that has the perfect balance of details and action so the reader is not jumping through paragraphs of detail. Rather, I found myself trying to keep pace with the spine tingling action which was refreshing as well as pleasantly surprising. I found myself thoroughly engorged and satisfied with the sustanance of Niko. Easily comparable to a five course, five star meal that you happen upon without breaking the bank. It was the best novel I have had the pleasure of digesting in quite awhile. If you enjoy action packed reading with great characters and storylines, then read it, you won't regret it.
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April 30, 2015Kick-Ass Urban Fantasy Dystopian with SciFi Elements and Gene Mutations: AWESOME!
#UrbanFantasy #ScienceFiction #GeneMutations #Monsters
Before I even go into the review, I feel this cover must be mentioned. IMHO it is kick-ass. Not only does Niko look tough, but she looks sexy with some great booty. And, pleases, let's talk about the bat. Chains and nails and dripping blood? Sweet . . .
Okay, moving on to the story. If you like original stories, creativity, and new creatures, this story is for you.
Niko lives in a time where something happened to the atmosphere to turn all rain to acid rain. The acid is so strong you can't let it touch you, least it eats through you. Acid proof shingles have to be put on roofs. Your shoes have to be acid proof or they will melt away. And all water must be treated or it will kill you. This is a harsh world.
It's made even harsher because humans have divided into the Haves and Have Nots because there are limited resources. Only the wealthy can afford to live in the city where purified water is in plentiful supply. The rest are kept out by gates, guards, and guns, surviving by their brawn and wits.
If that isn't bad enough, there are genetically mutated humans who have transformed into scary as hell creatures called Slithers. Slithers eat people and move with incredible speed, far beyond the average human. Luckily, some rare people have an innate ability to move fast enough to kill them.
Enter Niko, a seventeen year old girl who's entire family is killed by Slithers, except for one brother who goes missing. When the insider populace found out Niko can kill sSlithers, she's taken to the city to protect the populace. However, her brother is on the outside and all Niko cares about is finding her brother. Outside of the gate waits Slithers galore, acid rain, starvation, thirst, gangs, and other people doing whatever required to survive their brutal existence.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who wants a unique kick-ass urban fantasy with science fiction elements in a dystopian environment.
Lilo Abernathy
Author and Book Lover
#UrbanFantasy #ScienceFiction #GeneMutations #Monsters
Before I even go into the review, I feel this cover must be mentioned. IMHO it is kick-ass. Not only does Niko look tough, but she looks sexy with some great booty. And, pleases, let's talk about the bat. Chains and nails and dripping blood? Sweet . . .
Okay, moving on to the story. If you like original stories, creativity, and new creatures, this story is for you.
Niko lives in a time where something happened to the atmosphere to turn all rain to acid rain. The acid is so strong you can't let it touch you, least it eats through you. Acid proof shingles have to be put on roofs. Your shoes have to be acid proof or they will melt away. And all water must be treated or it will kill you. This is a harsh world.
It's made even harsher because humans have divided into the Haves and Have Nots because there are limited resources. Only the wealthy can afford to live in the city where purified water is in plentiful supply. The rest are kept out by gates, guards, and guns, surviving by their brawn and wits.
If that isn't bad enough, there are genetically mutated humans who have transformed into scary as hell creatures called Slithers. Slithers eat people and move with incredible speed, far beyond the average human. Luckily, some rare people have an innate ability to move fast enough to kill them.
Enter Niko, a seventeen year old girl who's entire family is killed by Slithers, except for one brother who goes missing. When the insider populace found out Niko can kill sSlithers, she's taken to the city to protect the populace. However, her brother is on the outside and all Niko cares about is finding her brother. Outside of the gate waits Slithers galore, acid rain, starvation, thirst, gangs, and other people doing whatever required to survive their brutal existence.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who wants a unique kick-ass urban fantasy with science fiction elements in a dystopian environment.
Lilo Abernathy
Author and Book Lover
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