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Glow
by Amy Kathleen Ryan
Author Website:
I won an ARC of Glow on another website and the book has been in the top of my “to be read” list. I finally have a little time off to catch up on reading. So I spent the last two days in my cozy, warm abode snuggled up with a cupo'java and Glow. This book had many of my favorite components—action, dystopia, pseudo love triangle, an independent female protagonist, and space travel. I was impressed with how the book is split between the two protagonists, Waverly and Kieran. I was drawn into their separate stories and adventures and I eagerly devoured each chapter in anticipation of the intergalactic reunion between Waverly and Kieran.
Seth's character complicates things for Waverly and Kieran, yet I find that I am intrigued and almost routing for Seth. I wish the novel provided more back story on Seth's life with his domineering father. For that matter, I wish there was more back story on the main characters and the members of both spaceship crews. I wanted to know more about life on the Empyrean before the conflict. I am left wondering what happened on Earth to cause life threatening droughts and loss of resources. At times the novel felt rushed and more detail was needed to make the story richer.
I also enjoyed the new spin that Ryan put on several familiar scenes from other literary stories. The power plays between the boys on the Empyrean is reminiscent of a Lord of the Flies scene and the girls fight for freedom on New Horizon reminded me of an Amazon uprising. I loved the author's ability to skew the idea of utopia and how humanity, at times, is its own worst enemy.
Four reasons I hope there is a sequel or companion novel to Glow:
- I can't wait to see what New Earth is like and I am so curious about how many light years away it is from Earth.
- Seth needs the opportunity to prove he is a good guy.
- What happens in the confrontation between the two ships?
- Who will Waverly choose or not choose?
Let's Rate It!
The Cover:
Those graphic artists know what they are doing. I like both the ARC cover and the official hardcover designs. They both have a ethereal quality.
Page Turner Worthiness Factor:
I demand a sequel. I did not think this initially, but with each chapter I knew there had to be a sequel in the works.
Coming to a Theatre Near You:
Worth the price of three gallons of gas. I think this movie would have the feel of a YA Battle-star Galatica.
Better than a bowl of ice cream:
Chocolate with sprinkles. This novel has potential, but I am hoping that the sequel(s) are even better and exceed expectations.
