I was given this copy by the author to listen and review.
First, I think the voice actor is amazing. The characters stand out and the performance was one of the best I’ve ever heard.
Second, I feel like this book should come with a trigger warning. Topics like child abuse, rape and long term verbal & mental abuse are experienced by most of the main characters. It’s tough to listen to how these children are treated, and it’s not just occasionally- it’s the entirety of this book. The characters experiences many unpleasant instances from being physically mutilated to being yelled at like a dog. There is a point where the main character has some brief moments of less pain but it doesn’t negate the brainwashing and abuse he had to go through.
Kudos to the author for giving me such visceral reactions to the characters, I felt that pain and suffering. She’s an excellent writer and the characters came to life.
I would not read this if you had a difficult childhood or have children and your fear is them being taken and abused.
I finished this book but were times I wasn’t sure if I wanted to. The story telling and the hope for some pleasant outcomes kept me going.
Overall 3 stars for a decent sci-fi story.