Rite of Rejection (Acceptance #1)

"Before you stands the future."

Straight-laced, sixteen-year-old Rebecca can't wait for her Acceptance. A fancy ball, eligible bachelors, and her debut as an official member of society. Instead, the Machine rejects Rebecca. Labeled as a future criminal, she's shipped off to a life sentence in a lawless penal colony.

A life behind barbed-wire fences with the world's most dangerous people terrifies Rebecca. She reluctantly joins a band of misfit teens in a risky escape plan, complete with an accidental fiancé she's almost certain she can learn to love.

But freedom comes with a price. To escape a doomed future and prove her innocence, Rebecca must embrace the criminal within.

What I thought:

First, I'd like to admit that I am not a big dystopian reader. I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. I haven't read any of the popular titles that are currently being turned into Blockbuster movies. *Hangs head in shame*

With that out of the way, I really enjoyed this book. The cast of characters was fleshed out nicely and, while the MC, Rebecca, was a little soft at the beginning of the story, I felt her actions were consistent with being forced out of polite society and housed with criminals. She does find her backbone toward the end, and I liked seeing her evolve into a strong, self-assured person.

I loved the diversity in this novel. I loved the twists and turns. I loved the romance. I thought the setting felt a little flat at times, specifically regarding the other people in the PIT. The PIT is supposed to house thousands, but it sometimes felt like Rebecca and her gang of friends were the only ones there. With that many criminals housed in one place, I guess I expected more violence.

The ending left me feeling slightly disappointed, like there could've been more. I'm not sure if this is a stand-alone novel or the first in a series, but--without adding spoilers--the ending snuck up on me. Don't get me wrong. The ending is an ending, and it ties up the threads nicely, but if there is a second novel, I will definitely read it.

I rate this book 4.5 STARS.