The Pledge by Kimberly Derting

The Pledge by Kimberly Derting

Charlie has grown up hiding a heavy burden. In the country of Ludania each social class has their own language and one common language. Citizens are only allowed to know or speak the language belonging to their class. Charlie is special. She understands all of them. Her country is in a state of revolution with harsh laws, and this is a crime punishable by death. The Revolutionaries are tired of living under the harsh laws of Queen Sabara and are ready for a new regime change. When the revolution reaches her town everyone’s lives are at stake. The Queen demands complete control, loyalty, and is on the hunt for a replacement queen. Charlie’s life is turned upside down when a young soldier, Max, enters her life. He makes her wish for things that could lead to her death. That’s not all, keeping her secret has become harder and Max seems to be keeping secrets of his own. Ludania is about to see a revolution centuries in the making. Will Charlie survive long enough to see what happens? Will she have the courage to embrace her destiny?

I really liked The Pledge by Kimberly Derting. I was a little leery at first, because The Body Finder wasn’t really my type of book. I am so glad that I decided to give this author a second try. I read The Pledge in one day! I ignored my thesis paper, read between classes, in class, and waiting for a ride. I just couldn’t put it down.  I am a sucker for a tough, selfless, and compassionate heroine. Charlie fit my ideal character perfectly. I didn’t really like Brook at first, but she grew on me as the story went along and more insight on her character was revealed. I wish that Aron’s character had been developed more. He seemed interesting and I thought he would have had a bigger role, but the story just didn’t go there.  As far as Max and Xander; I really liked them. Max at times got on my nerves. I couldn’t always understand his level of devotion/love he felt for Charlie so soon.  Finally I get to Angelina. She was so precious and I absolutely loved her. She was my favorite character after Charlie. She might even give her a run for favorite. I also have to complement on the simplicity and beauty of this cover. I love how understated it is and actually fits the character. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and hope there is a follow up. I give this book a 4 STAR rating.

*** The Pledge Extras***

The Pledge by Kimberly Derting has approximately 336 pages and was release on November 15, 2011 by Margaret K. McElderry  Books.

Awaken by Katie Kacvinsky

Awaken by Katie Kacvinsky

Awaken by Katie Kacvinsky is set in a futuristic America where everything is done on computers. The universe has gone digital walks along the beach, hiking, dates, tutoring, and most importantly school. The outside world is unknown and scary to most...why would you want to be unplugged? Rebellious Madeline's father is the creator of DS, the digital school that provides safety and equality to all through education. This is Madeline's life, but when she meets face to face with a boy she met on the internet he introduces her to the life that she has been missing. Maybe this new technlogically enhanced world isn't keeping everyone safe, but slowly taking everything away that makes us human.

I really enjoyed Awaken and it really hit home. Madeline was easy to relate to despite living in such a different place. With the technological advancements of today this type of future isn't that hard to imagine. We shop online, date online, go to school online, use video games as exercise aids. There seems to be little difference.This book makes you think of all that would be missed and the little things that we take for granted: cars, trees, sports, books, grass, fire, sunsets, salty beach air, being face to face with friends, and the touch of another human. This book was amazing and all who are growing up in this digital age should read it.