I thoroughly enjoyed this novel! I loved all the characters but especially Annie, of course. I loved her rebellious spirit and drive, and her dreams of life outside the gate. One of my favorite parts was when the kids were in awe of the view of the mountaintops and just twirling around, soaking it all in and being free. I loved their spirit. I wasn't expecting a twist but I loved it and the ending.

In the acknowledgments, Samantha Cook writes this to encourage other would be writers: "Writing can be a lonely journey full of rejection, so stay strong and don't let anyone be the gatekeeper to your dreams." This statement was the theme of this book and is such an amazing quote. I look forward to reading more books by this author.

Thanks to LibraryThing's Member's Giveaway for this free book and this opportunity to read and review it. ( )

Bear in mind I am an adult reviewing a book written for teens! This book was an enjoyable read with very obvious influence from The Walking Dead series and also The Hunger Games. As a teen, who won't have read so much as me it would be a welcome addition to this genre although a bit too 'influenced' in parts. The boy/girl interactions and general teen experiences will feel very familiar and close to any 13-16 year old's world and be easy to get involved in The characters are well thought out with the sort of different personalities, which occur in any group of school friends. ( )

This book really took me for a ride. I loved how each characters personality reminded me of people I know. I really felt like I was Ruby. The death of my favorite character kinda broke my heart. I also feel as though there just wasnt enough of the horror or gore aspect. This was more of a thriller suspense. That being said this is a book for teens. The thing is this book really leaves behind questions. I feel as though I have so many questions. The biggest question of all is will there be another book? Once you get to the end you feel like theres just gotta be more. There is just so much left unanswered and i want to know. I would definitely recommend this to anyone, it's totally worth the read. ( )