From Goodreads: Teens who discover they were secretly genetically altered before birth are brought together at a classified site where they forge new friendships, find love, develop "super-abilities," and even unearth a conspiracy.
My Rating: 3.5 hearts
Thoughts on the Novel: Solid by Shelley Workinger was a quick read with a good cast of characters and an interesting plot.
As someone who is in the science stream, Workinger’s explanation for her characters’ superpowers made sense without making me annoyed for being too simplistic. At the same time, those who know absolutely nothing about genetics will still be able to understand what has transpired without feeling like they’re being overloaded with scientific information.
Workinger’s characters – even Miranda once you get to know her – were likeable enough, but I never got fully attached to them. I think part of the reason may be because as a reader, you don’t know exactly what they’re capable of since Clio, the main character, and her friends are still trying to figure it out themselves. So, they pretty much acted like typical teens (except sometimes the dialogue made them seem older) when I was expecting them to do amazing things.
This also led to the expectation that there would be a lot of action. However, Solid focused more on character development, with Clio discovering things about herself and making new friends with whom she felt comfortable with. Even when there could have been the potential for some action, the conflict was resolved a little too easily.
Despite its issues, I still liked Solid. I think if it had been longer, some of my expectations could have been met; and hopefully that’s going to be the case in Settling, the sequel to Solid.
Solid was released in July 2010 by CreateSpace.
Comments About the Cover: I like it. The bright chromosome caught my eye and the way the purple is used also makes the font stand out.
This ebook was received from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I'd be wanting more action too, but good characterization can keep me interested. Sounds good!
ReplyDeleteSounds like a good start to the series. Although from reading the description I would think there would be a lot of action too. I am reading it this week so I hope I find it as enjoyable as you did.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad the genetic aspect of it is at least believable and still simple enough for us to understand but not so simple that it annoys you just like you said. I'm surprised there's not more action, but maybe that will come in Settling:) Really nice review Zahida!
ReplyDeleteIt must be hard to balance the discovery genetically altered humans while giving them and readers time to adapt. I think I would have felt cheated out of something if the author had rushed it but still it might have been more acceptable since the novel more is paranormal fantasy than contemporary. I agree with you, the action would have been a welcome. Shame it didn't last longer. Still sounds very interesting, though.
ReplyDeleteOkay, I'm getting rambly. Thanks, Z!
I got this book too and now I'm curious to find out if I will like this book. I mean I am an action addict and I need at least a couple of pages with ACTION on it.
ReplyDeleteSounds good. I like it when authors give a believable explanation for super powers. I usually like a bit more action, but maybe I'll give this one a shot.
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