Review: Vitro

When Sophie gets an urgent email from her mother asking her for help, she returns to the island where she grew up. After several long flights, she finally lands, determined to find the island her mother's working on, but no one seems to acknowledge it's existence. Finally, she's told a local hangout where she might be able to find a pilot.

The pilot who agrees to take her is none other than her best friend from childhood. As soon as they reach the island, trouble begins. The plane suffers a serious accident - leaving them stranded. They split up - Sophie goes to find her mother while Jim attempts to revive the plane. That's when everything goes from bad to worse - what's really happening on this island and why is it such a big secret?

My Thoughts: This companion novel to Origin was intense: high stakes, lots of action and danger. Ethical questions about genetics and genetic engineering are called into question. These questions make the future seem like an endless stream of possibilities - but many of those are horrific. With this kind of technology, the world can become radically different. I felt horrible for Sophie growing up with her mother for so long, but I like how she found Jim. The plot twists and the horror of the book made me gasp at every turn. This book kept me thinking long after I turned the final page - a fantastic thriller.

Cover Thoughts: Love it
Source: My Library

review: Origin

Pia's an immortal. She's the work of five generations of scientists in the Little Cam compound. She's been raised to become a scientist and follow their teachings to create a new race.  As soon as she’s old enough, she’ll learn the secrets of Little Cam

On the eve of her 17^th birthday, she comes across a hole in the fence. The call of the forest is powerful and even though she's never been outside the compound, Pia's curious.

During her quick time of freedom, she meets Eio, a handsome boy who makes her question her world, her life, and her dreams. Are the scientists of Little Cam great gods or are their secrets horrific?

My Thoughts: I adore this debut novel; it sucked me in and wouldn't let me go. I find myself still thinking about it. I enjoyed learning the secrets of Little Cam along with Pia. I liked watching her struggle between the two worlds, questioning her beliefs. I loved the romance with Eio and the time they spent together. I really loved the jungle setting, it made my imagination fly. I hope there's more of this story coming. I'm very anxious to see what Jessica Khoury will write next.

Cover Thoughts: I really love it - especially after reading it.
Source: Reviewed for VOYA.