Once by Anna Carey

Title: Once
Author: Anna Carey
Series: Eve #2
Published: July 3, 2012 by Harper Collins
Rating:

Sixteen years have passed since a deadly virus wiped out most of the Earth’s population. After learning of the terrifying part she and her classmates were fated to play in the rebuilding of New America, eighteen-year-old Eve fled to the wilds and Califia, a haven for women determined to live outside the oppressive rule of the king of New America. However, her freedom came at a price: she was forced to leave Caleb, the boy she loves, wounded and alone at the city gates. Eve quickly learns that Califia may not be as safe as it seems and soon finds herself in the City of Sand and the palace of the king. There she uncovers the real reason he was so intent on her capture, and the unbelievable role he intends her to fill. When she is finally reunited with Caleb, they will enact a plan as daring as it is dangerous. But will Eve once again risk everything—her freedom, her life—for love?

A Copy of this Book was Provided by the Publisher for Review

My Review:

If you haven't read this first book in this series, Eve, I would recommend picking up a copy now, because this story just got ten times more intense!!

In Once, the reader delves deeper into the politics of this new dystopian world. At the start, a huge plot twist is revealed regarding Eve, which changes the story drastically. The secret could easily be predicted, but its a welcome 'game-changer' that stirs up the drama, risk, and desperation of this story. I definitely believe that this was the extra oomf this book needed to set it apart from every other dystopian. 

The majority of this book focuses on this major plot reveal, so I'm sorry this review is a bit vague, but I don't want to ruin any surprises. The pace of this book has slowed down a lot, but that doesn't detract from the writing or plot. If anything, it adds a bit more thrill to the story line because you don't know when all hell is going to break loose. The bad guys are a bit harder to figure out and as a reader you're left with that feeling that you can't trust anyone. 

I will tell you that the romance has stepped it up, as it is much steamier. The relationship between Eve and Caleb has progressed beautifully and there is a palpable tension between the two characters. There are quite a few 'blush-worthy' scenes which only increases my love for this pairing. There are also quite a few new characters introduced who also stir up some much needed insanity, but even more enjoyable is the chance to revisit some old ones. There is a perfect balance of old and new in this book which will lead perfectly into the third book of this trilogy.

Overall, this book was definitely an improvement to an already successful dystopian. Everything has intensified- romance, risk, betrayal, secrets- and everything comes together into one INSANE ending that will leave you desperately wanting more. Carey has skillfully created an amazing bridge book that has upped the anty in an already amazing series.