Amongst The Ruins Review

So, uhhhh, I read this like really amazing book, it’s  called “Amongst the ruins” and if you don’t read it then, uhhhh, I guess it’s your loss.

This book was truly amazing! I received this book from the author for an honest review in return. It's the first novel in the promising 2020 chronicles. When I finished reading ‘Amongst the ruins’ I completely fangirled to the author and she hasn’t replied yet so I think I scared her? Maybe the part where I told her I “loved” her did it?

Ok, so onto the more serious part of the review... Heck, this is going to be hard to write, I’m still so HYPER about the book!

I genuinely don’t know where to start or what to say to prove how phenomenal this novel was. It’s hard to sum up awesomeness in a few paragraphs.

Unlike most dystopian novels, whose plots sound promising but fail to deliver, this story really struck me and is now one of my favourites of all time.

The plot was basic yet seemed so complex at the same time. In the future the remaining 15% of the population live in clans due to the collapse in society after a nuclear disaster devastated mankind. The ‘Nigredo’ are savage radiation-twisted mutants, almost human-like if it weren't for their lack of empathy,  who threaten to ruin the life mankind has managed to salvage from their past failures; but they’re not all that endanger Shilo’s life, her freedom and future. 

Young Shilo’s transformation from a young girl in hiding to a young woman who will stand her own ground is compelling and dangerous. Everything she does is to survive. Nothing else matters but survival in this world, but for young Shilo, survival isn't enough. She wants freedom from the trap she's fallen into, from the expectations of women in this monster of a world. 

The characters are what make the story. The characterization was beautiful and ever so real. The heartless men fuelled me with adrenaline and her friends and family enveloped me in warmth. I felt everything she experienced as if I were her, but at the same time I felt as though I was sat on the side line, unable to help her when my heart was screaming at me to do so.

The relationships between characters, whether they were enemies, friends, family or lovers were indecisive, believable and emotional. The feelings characters developed towards one another and the words they wished they’d had a chance to say make you realise just how precious life is.

I really can’t strain enough how prodigious this novel was. The plot was simple yet layered, the characters all too human and beautiful.

A compelling read. An admirable protagonist. Her story will consume you.

*Recommended for 15+ due to mature content*

Purchase the novel here - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Amongst-Ruins-Chronicles-2020-ebook/dp/B005OZIIVE/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1344082495&sr=8-1-fkmr0 

 (Also available at other stores)

Leave a comment to let me know what you think. :)