Replica (Replica, Book 1)
Gr 9 Up—In the corporate state of Paxco, the people are divided into three castes: Basement-dwellers, Employees, and Executives. Marriages are arranged between powerful families to assure the future for a privileged few, and the entire economy is built around the controversial technology of replication: the ability to create new bodies for Executives if something should happen to the originals. Nadia Lake has long been betrothed to Nate Hayes, the Chairman Heir, and despite his playboy ways they have developed a strong friendship. When Nate is murdered, Nadia is the last one to see him alive. While she is not necessarily a suspect, she quickly becomes a pawn in a deadly game. Nate's memory ends at his last download, so when he is replicated, he has no idea who would want him dead-or why. Nate and Nadia must find out what happened the night he was killed and what secret led to his murder. Set in a dystopian New York City, the story has an interesting premise and its world is fleshed out. The characters are well developed, though their actions sometimes seem contrived. The idea of the replication process, how it works, and how it fits into the structure of Paxco are what set this particular dystopian future apart from other books in this genre. The ending sets the stage for a sequel, as a few major and minor plotlines are left dangling. Readers will be eager to see what comes next.—Erik Knapp, Davis Library, Plano, TX