Scythe by
"I have always been into science fiction, so Scythe seemed interesting off the bat. But this novel isn’t the space and aliens’ style of science fiction (though there is nothing wrong with that). It is much more down to Earth, which is partially why it grabbed my attention. This story is set in a future, rid of death by natural causes. The world is largely peaceful and free from disease. All thanks to the AI the Thunderhead. The only ones who can end life, and in tern keep the population down, are the Scythes. People who master the art of killing, for the greater good. The unique setting the author creates for the characters to explore creates unique and fun experiences and will be a loved read by Sci-Fi fans, and book readers alike.
The story follows 2 polar opposite teenagers, Rowan and Citra, who are both forced to apprentice under a scythe. And seeing the two personality types mesh together creates interesting chemistry that is fun to watch unfold. And while we are on the topic of characters, this book is full of interesting and engaging ones. Many of the characters have interesting back stories and thought-provoking morals and motives. And practically all the main characters motives contrast, creating an interesting conflict that is made even more unique and fun by the setting it takes place in. The logistics and the overall peaceful setting make any sort of conflict unique. And I couldn’t praise the setting without mentioning the Thunderhead. The Thunderhead is an artificial intelligence that governs the world. Overall my favorite character, the Thunderhead has strict rules and morals that often contradict what it wants to do. So that ongoing conflict in its ’’head’’ is really engaging. But with the setting comes the books’ biggest issue. The author never thoroughly describes or even mentions what the worlds cities and landmarks look like so it’s hard to get a good grasp on what the setting and events really look like. Now don’t be mistaken, the areas the characters do visit are well described, but the world at large, like the architecture and style of the world is barely touched on. And the one final complaint I have with this novel, is how the ending happens. Of course, I won’t spoil it for you but just letting you know.
This book has so much to offer, an interesting premise, fun and engaging characters, and an exciting story line. Though it doesn’t thoroughly explore its interesting world, the setting still makes the conflicts and dilemmas the characters face so much better. And the truly amazing and heartful conflict that plagues the characters is breathtakingly written and enjoyable to follow. So yes I would 100% recommend this book, and its two sequels Thunderhead and The Cost."
-Cooper L., Teen Advisory Board (TAB) Member
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