Review: Way better than the summary hints at
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 02 13, 2013
Wow. I literally just finished the last page, and I'm astounded. I haven't come across a book I liked this much in a while. The Athena Effect is absolutely a book I will recommend to anyone and everyone. I was able to read this in exchange for an honest review, something I'm glad to do.The plot given on the website is nothing compared to the actual book; it doesn't do it justice. Frankly, when I read the summary given on GoodReads I didn't think it would be something I would fall in love with. It's a general description of two teenagers from different walks of life with the same nickname. Cali is from "the country," and Cal is a "biker bad boy." The thing is, these descriptions don't fit either of them accurately at all.I'm not sure if the description was purposefully vague, but I think it should reflect the actual plotline, which is this: Cali literally lives off the land with her parents, living with no ties whatsoever to the modern world aside from books. When her parents unexpectedly die, she's forced to move in with her aunt she's never met and discover a world far beyond her understanding. And she must hide her special ability from everyone.Except Cal. He comes across it accidentally, and suffice to say that he's dumbfounded by a girl who is so unequivocally different than any other person he's ever met.When a mad scientist (literally) hunts her down, their feelings are tested as well as Cali's determination and strength.It's amazing. Truly. The novel was well written and fluid. There were never any moments where I was confused as to which Cal was being talked about, which is a triumph in itself. And I loved both Cals. Cali's strength is amazing, and I admit I wish I could do half the things she can do. Cal was heartwarming, in the way that he was trying to run away from his feelings about his parents. When Cali forces him to rethink his life, we see a transformation. Hence, heartwarming. Not to mention Jarod and Crystal. While they both have their faults, they are truly lovable characters and I found that I cared about them surprisingly more than I though I would. The same goes for Layla. I ached for the childhood she could never have, and I wanted her to have the experiences of being a normal teenager that she desperately wanted. Even Michael was relatable. Poor kid was always shunned to the side, since he didn't have the same power that his sister Layla did. He was always an afterthought, that much was clear just in the short timespan we see him in the novel.The plot is fantastic. It was well thought out and well articulated. My only complaint is that I don't want to wait for the second one. I am amazed this book doesn't have a bigger following. But rest assured, I will be marketing this book out to everyone I know. I personally am going to be anticipating the second book. I'm hooked.