Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver

Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver, published 2012

Young Adult, dystopian, sequel to Delirium

Read April 2012

4 Stars

My review:
Spoilers ahead.

I'm not sure what I was expecting with this book. After Delirium I think I pictured a book full of Lena living in the woods in the Wilds and her struggles there. Of course, this book gives us some of that. But it also gives so much more.

I was pleasantly surprised to find this book as interesting and at times even better than the first book. The author threw some serious curve balls. I especially enjoyed the developing relationship of Lena and Julian. This was a roll reversal for Lena and I appreciated the growth and perspective that she brought to the relationship. I also found Raven's character to be fascinating. For so long I was thinking, Who is this girl? Where did she come from? I am glad we got glimpses into who she is and what has made her into the person we see in the book. She is strong and yet so flawed. One of my favorite moments is when Lena decides to take her own life into her hands again. She shows great character at this time.

It wasn't all perfect for me though. There was too much swearing. Some may find it benign, but it was too much for me. And, I'm a little mad at the author for leaving us with so many questions. Of course, she is a very smart lady because I will be waiting somewhat patiently for the next installment.

Warnings: The occasional f-word, but a lot of other more common swearing. Some violence.

I would not allow my 14 year old to read this until she is older, maybe 16. I know already that she would be kinda annoyed with the swearing.