By: James Dashner
Review by: Kylie Comfoltey
*Note: may contain Maze Runner series spoilers!
Set thirteen years before the time of Thomas in the Maze, Mark and Trina have survived the brutal sun flares that destroyed the world as they knew it. Just as things are looking brighter, the eastern United States falls victim to a disease that causes anger and insanity, and leaves its victims begging for death.
The disease is swiftly changing with each new wave of victims, worsening and ultimately killing off everyone it touches. There is no escape and no known cure. Mark and Trina find themselves with the weight of humanity's future on their shoulders, caught in a desperate race against time and lunacy.
Wow. I think a book has just broken my heart for the first time. Truly. It took me two days to get over it and move on to something new.
James Dashner has the enviable ability to capture his reader's attention from the first page and hold it to the last word. He keeps the reader guessing from one page to the next. I am a HUGE fan of the Maze Runner series and couldn't wait to get my hands on The Kill Order. That said, The Kill Order was not what I was expecting. It was also more than I had hoped for.
I am bursting with both great pride and complete disappointment in humanity. I want to cry and clap and soak up every beautiful thing this world has to offer. Mostly I want to hug my babies and read up on the probability of solar flares. Perpetually prepared: that's my motto!
Oh, that Dashner. He did not disappoint! If you loved the Maze Runner Series, you need to read this book. The world-building is strong enough to build a mental picture, but doesn't overwhelm the story or add unnecessary length. The primary characters are well-developed and relatable.
Dashner's main protagonist, Mark, is a strong boy with a huge heart. He is rational and selfless and, while not overly brave, he acts when most would crumble. He is kind when the world is mean. I found him to be a very believable character. The romance between Mark and Trina is mild. This is an intense, action-packed story that leaves little room for snuggles and tender moments. I didn't feel the story was lacking because of this. On the contrary, the action had my heart pounding and I devoured the book in a few sittings.
If you are expecting a book about the creation of The Maze or more on the Thomas/Teresa relationship, stop expecting that. I know you want it. I want it! But you won't find it in The Kill Order. So slap that pout off your face and immerse yourself into this gripping, disturbing, overall outstanding book. The Kill Order has secured a place in my Top 10 of 2012.
Sexuality: Mild. Insinuated and assumed sexual behavior among crazy Cranks.
Drugs/Alcohol: Mild--these things were mostly charred with the solar flares, you know.
Profanity: Mild. Good ol' James Dashner!
Violence: Moderate. The Cranks are lunatics. They want to eat each other. Even the non-crazy people are crazy because they are running from the crazies. Expect plenty of apocalyptic violence, but not a lot of gore.
I read The Maze Runner, but I haven't gotten to the rest of the trilogy yet. I really liked it though, so I can't wait to read this one as well!
ReplyDeleteGreat review, Emily!! (:
Thanks, Leanne! You really should read the rest of the series. The Scorch Trials is awesome, and The Death Cure has an unexpected finish. This book sets a great tone and atmosphere to wrap everything up!
DeleteWow! That sounds really good. Thanks for the recommendation! I still haven't read The Maze Runner, though I've heard it's amazing. Looks like I'll have to add Kill Order to my TBR pile, too.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely add it, Caryn, but add the whole series to the list! The Kill Order is the prequel, but I feel like it is best read after the trilogy. It's different from the rest. Excellent series!
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