Review: Enjoyable read!
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 08 13, 2013
An intense read from beginning `til the very end; cannot think of a better way to bypass the remaining summer days, than to read a good YA Dystopia filled with non-stop action and awe-inspiring romances.In Dara Morrow's post-apocalyptic world, success is when you have become a devoted Contributor to the Job Creators and being look down upon, is to unsuccessfully do so. Dara is seventeen-years-old, and is a selected few of many to train as a yearlong apprenticeship.  Now she must prove herself once again by entering the competition - where the chosen one will be assistance to the Head of Engineering, Andersen.  Not only Dara, but every apprentice is looking forward to this, it has been imbedded in their minds since they were young, that this is their road and direction in life ... their futures. But when matter takes a different turn and this high-life - filled with secrets - is not as Dara once thought it was. She does not know whom to trust. Those whom seem like enemies end up being allies, while ones whom you have thought a friend, are stabbing you in the back. Dara's world is about to get hectic, and as a Dystopian lover, I am going to be selfish and say, it is thrilling.When you read about Dara, you'll feel confused - one moment she's a nervous wreck, the next she's BAM in your face. I liked that she is capable of sticking up for herself, especially with a jerk like Ryan - another trainee -- barking around. Ugh, he was sooo annoying (just goes to show what a phenomenal writer Nicole Ciacchella is)! But I'm straying from the point. Dara as most Dystopian protagonist, will be the one to try and stop whatever evil is about to unleash, but in her case, rather than to have that typical male protagonist to be the wind beneath her wings, she has to take a different direction on her own, with strangers whom she wants to trust but is not one-hundred percent she can. It a scary decision and I have respect for her; she feels what is right, and she is going with it.Dara and Jonathan's relationship was adorable. But with every step they take towards achieving their life-long goals, their relationship is challenged. I thought what they had was beautiful, yet at the same time, it didn't seem like they belong together. It felt as if Dara had to constantly tame herself, in order to be the perfect person for Jonathan, although it is no secret he cares for her.  Once again, complicated.Letizia, a Senior Engineer, became one of my favorite characters. What would Dara become without her? Letizia was hard on Dara and from how Dara described her, I would have thought her an android; never once showing a hint of emotion in her face or actions. But all of it was to give Dara what is best for her, to get Dara to harden up. I mentioned how Dara was able to stick up for herself, yes, but she also let things get to her and in the occupation she trying to pursue there is no time for weakness.  Although Letizia is a minor character, she plays a big part in the whole book; I can't wait to read about her role growing in book two.Javier, another apprentice, in the beginning seemed like a nice guy, his character just shows how greed can lead to your own destruction. Admittingly, he is a character that is fun to read about. His actions and behavior really reels you in, and although he is a minor addition to Contributor, his character is well remembered.Telling you about the rebels is like slipping you in on a secret, therefore I will not be giving it to you in details. (Har, Har, you'll have to read it for yourself and it is not something you want to miss). Just know that whenever there is a world that was created to be perfection, there is always a group of rebellions whom want nothing to do with, or to bring it down. But the question is ... are these peopling really the bad guys?Keep an eye out for Nicole Ciacchella works; you will regret missing the chance to read a good book.Recommend.