Wow! This book was exciting and so different from what I was expecting.I will admit that I didn't really read the blurb ( I hate reading blurbs because sometimes they give too much away ) and I'm actually glad I didn't, because it allowed me to find the little gems that were placed throughout this book, and to enjoy every second without knowing exactly what was around the next corner.I'm not a huge fan of Dystopian fiction, but I have to say that most of the books in this genre that I have had the pleasure of reading have been amazing and this one ranks right there among my favorite. Rich, clean and crisp - the writing was superb. I felt like I was right there with the characters as they struggled in a world full or rules and deception. I'm still trying to wrap my head around the idea of a disease that wiped out most of every living thing on this planet, except for the female species. It certainly was enthralling. This book is filled with a number of exciting characters, some endearing, others I loved to hate. But, as entertaining as this book was, it also held strong message. It showed the lengths humans are willing to go to for survival, but also our selfishness and self-righteousness.This story was fascinating and thrilling. Fans of David Estes' Dwellers and Country Sagas will absolutely love this story. A great read. Way before dystopias became a genre, SF writers peopled worlds with only men or women. The concept still intrigues me, probably because I can no longer remember the plots of those old books. I do remember that too many of those writers took the low road, so I ended up putting some books down. I was relieved to find that The Only Boy kept me turning the pages for good reasons – a multilayered plot with relatable characters. Their realistic flaws led to bad decisions based on how they were raised, false assumptions, poor impulse control, phobias, or misguided loyalties. Even the dislikable characters kept my interest. The teen main characters, Taylor and Mary, were awkward at relationships and inclined to jump to conclusions. They did so at the worst possible moments. This kept the plot moving – literally from place to place, so I never found a good stopping point and read the whole book in one night.The points of view switched more often than in most books, and I found it enjoyable to see the same scene through two pairs of eyes. As a visual learner, I also I liked the well-described scenes. I couldn’t picture a few, but they were minor parts of larger events. While gender and all the attendant problems with same-sex reproduction formed the story’s framework, politics trumped romance as the predominant theme. The repressive Matriarch and the bully Katherine were my favorite characters to dislike and feel sorry for in turns; it takes a good writer to do create empathy for the bad guys — or women – as the case may be. I can’t even name the best example of misguided patriotism without a spoiler. Let’s just say that the story came full circle and the author’s points hit home.There were some good lessons for teens and adults, including the amount of hard work and pain it can take to uncover the truth. Some basic ideas were that touch is necessary for children to develop, and jumping to conclusions can hurt people. Thanks to the author’s skill with words, none of the lessons felt preachy, and the imperfect ending felt real. Bonuses for good editing and a full plot arc, both too rare these days.I would have no qualms with a twelve-year-old reading The Only Boy. Sex is minimal. However, there is some violence, and vivid descriptions of the disease that wiped out most of the human race might disturb younger children. I like books that make me think and re-evaluate my ideas and priorities. The Only Boy did that, so I would like another book. 4 of 5 stars. I was provided a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
What do You think about The Only Boy (2013)?
I reallllly want to read the book veeeeery sooon. I'm so excited
—queenhazeleyes
