Customer Reviews

Marooned (The Communion Wars)

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

A solid and entertaining novel that delivers a "Hunger Games" edge, but in a sleek, dark, urban future! Punk is a lovably overconfident teen who competes in illegal sports events in a world where Immortality is just one more thing the rich can buy. But don't think this is like that painful IN TIME movie. She learns over the course of this story how much pain she can take, not just physically but emotionally and maybe even spiritually. She doesn't know it all, and what she thinks she knows about just about every person around her is wrong enough that it could get her killed.

Written in a clear, unaffected style with plenty of wry wit to spare, this one is a definite keeper. I can't wait till my Hunger Games loving daughter gets her ereader so I can gift this one.

From the moment I opened my copy of P.J. Druce's "Marooned", I couldn't put it down. The action takes ahold of you immediately and does not let go.

Punk is 2 weeks from her 16th birthday, and immortality, when her whole world is turned upside down. Her mother is in danger and Punk travels to places she never thought she would, questions the motives of people she has known her whole life, and puts herself to the ultimate test to try and save her.

This is a story of love and despair, about the differences that push people apart, and the bonds that tie us together.

Bottom line, I had a Great time reading this story and I am really looking forward to books 2 and 3 of the Communion Wars.

I checked out the first three chapters of Maroon on the author's website prior to it's publication and the otherworldly "sci-fi" feel sparked enough interest to keep reading. It's written in the first person, from a "rich" girl who prefers her middle name "Punk", and the strange world of the wealthy she lives in, who take "Communion" and become immortal. On the third chapter, there's an explosion and that's about the time Punk's cushy lifestyle takes a sharp turn. The character is 15 in the story and might be considered "too mature" for some YA readers, in the sense she's not girlie and petulant; which turns me off from most YA, but the society is futuristic and dystopian and her maturity in this instance, peppered with "teen angst" is more believable. A credit actually to the author, for not creating a passive and wishy-washy "Bella" type.
The pacing is pretty relentless for the character, and doesn't bog down too much as a reader. Maybe one chapter - but overall it's tight-paced. The character doesn't get much of a break in-between getting either chased, shot at, or hit over the head. lol. Given that it's part of a series, what I liked about the first book is how it *has* an ending that won't leave you screaming at the writer at a cliff hanger or dangling sub-plot from another character you may happen to like. All the questions you might have are pretty much resolved for the beginning of Punk's journey that leads-in for the next book. I'm definitely going to follow the series, it's a first for me considering it's Young Adult and not typically my choice of reading material - but it's gritty enough to satisfy and doesn't pile on the gratuity so it's "safe" for people who like action and character driven stories without a lot of blood and gore. Marooned is more about the character in this volume, but I have a feeling more of the strange world Punk lives in will be explored as her journey continues, and with her eyes wide open to the lies she grew up with.

Marooned is an exciting novel that transports the reader to a whole other world that at first seems to be so unrealistic, yet while reading I couldn't help making comparisons to the world today. The mystery and excitement kept me up until 4am reading trying to figure out what would happen next. Not only is the story line enthralling but the characters are also captivating. Punk Jordan is a feisty young women who you can't help but like. She is independent, hardworking, and doesn't take crap from anyone. She's someone that other young women can look up to! You won't regret making this purchase!

I adore Punk, the MC in this book--she's tough but flawed, has her whole life taken and shaken and still manages to figure things out. The writing is crisp, pace fast and emotional enough to make me love her. The premise is very original and makes me mourn being Marooned... Great job. Looking forward to the sequel.

Honestly, I don't read much teen or YA books much, as I'm more of a darker story reader. However, I found myself drawn to Punk! I loved this book, and though that Punk acted as I would hope I would act if I were in some of her interesting situations! Punk acted in such a mature manner in this story, so I was able to connect with her (the main character). All I can say, is I loved it!!

Marooned is the story of Alyssa "Punk" Jordan. Punk, although of a higher, wealthy social status, is an unhappy girl. Her mom has severe emotional problems. Her dad, a powerful political player, is controlling and unfeeling towards his wife and daughter. Punk and her mom are virtually prisoners to her father's agenda. It's no wonder Punk spends her time fighting in fierce matches. When the illusion of Punk's world is shattered, she must contend with learning the harsh truths. Betrayal seems to be around every turn. Everything she knows to be true is steadily being ripped away. And Punk must find her way in a world she doesn't really know anything about.

Marooned offers a bleak, futuristic look at an urban society. Most people live their lives high above the ground, never even walking down there. Immortality is a given for the wealthy. Lower classes can earn an extended lifespan by becoming "Indentures". Those who are less fortunate must contend with disease that can be eradicated, if you are of the right social status. But, all the medical "advances" come with a price. There is action, adventure and deception. And Zombies. Yep, Zombies. Turns out, you can't screw around with people's brains with no consequences.

In Marooned, author PJ Druce has built a complete, harsh future that has plausibility. I really appreciate that he applied scientific reasoning to the abilities that his future shows. Marooned is a smart, entertaining read.

Favorite Quote:
"...but everyone I know calls me Punk. Whoever that Alyssa girl is, well, I don't know her and she certainly doesn't know me. We're both better off that way. If we ever met I'd probably kick her ass."

I have read very little YA fiction -- after all, I might be an adult but I'm certainly not young. And I wasn't really positive what "dystopia" meant. However, I was lucky enough to beta read for this novel, and I am hooked.

P.J. Druce introduces us to a most interesting heroine -- meet Alyssa Punk Jordan, although she prefers you just call her Punk. Strong, feisty but not without her flaws, Punk finds herself in a hell of a situation. Nothing is what it seems; the people she's trusted all her life are not who she believed, and she's caught up in political and personal intrigue on a massive scale.

"Marooned" is fresh, exciting and I couldn't stop turning the pages. Druce has not only introduced me to dystopian fiction, he has made me fall in love with YA fiction. An absolutely rocking read.