4 Stars: Imagine a Dystopian society that exists of two cities; one city, Dahn, sits at the center and houses the rich and powerful and another city, Neech, that surrounds it with the poor and working class. Barriers exists between cities and around the perimeter to keep out the evil that lurks in the post-apocalyptic unknown called The Further. Both cities are controlled by "The Corporation" run by Mr. Akin Hughes. Citizens of Neech and Dahn receive tattoos or marks at their Jatis or coming of age ceremony at the age of 8 years old. The marks can be scanned like a credit card, designate their career and they are "paired" for marriage...all decisions made by The Corporation. Karis works for as a seamstress and lives in Neech with her young brother and father. Karis' pair is caught getting an illegal tattoo, which also makes him deathly ill, and banished to the Further along with his family. This corresponds with Karis' little brother Ajna coming down with a mysterious illness. In order to save her brother, Katis must obtain an illegal tattoo and enter the inner city of Dahn to find the cure. This story would not be complete without a mysterious, incorrigible love interest for Karis named Ethan. He is a rebel that spreads illegal propaganda throughout Neech that informs citizens of The Corporation's nefarious dealings. Karis first meets him in Neech, but also discovers he has a life in Dahn where he is quite well known. Although Ethan's true identity wasn't a mystery for me at all, I thought the relationship between Karis and Ethan was well played. I also give huge props to RaeLynn Fry for writing a devious dystopian villain...Mr. Hughes gives me the creeps for sure! I also really like the set-up at the conclusion which clearly leaves a reader ready and eager for the next book. This is one of those dystopian books that makes you go "Hmmmm" and see how it could be applied to life today where there is almost an unspoken caste system. This story revolves around Karis and the society she lives in where the government has tricked the lower caste, or those that live in Neech, into thinking they're "marks" are what destines their lives. In fact it's not that at all. A story where the politically corrupt sabotage the lower class into servitude.I absolutely LOVED Ethan with his quick, funny, cocky personality. He teaches Karis what it's like to trust your heart, be brave and to fight for what you love.
What do You think about Caste (2013)?
A bit on the predictable side but overall a good dystopian novel for teens.
—kzygmunt
Loved it. I better see the next one out soon!!!!
—muehlbauer
