Out in the Wilds

Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver
It's funny in a way, because my biggest complaint about this book has little to do with the plot, but more to do with the fact it's a YA book. It just felt so short to me! I felt like as soon as I started reading it I was finished. Granted I haven't read a YA book in a while, but it's a little disappointing that a book I was enjoying was over so quickly.

There is a big cliffhanger at the end, which isn't that surprising considering the way the first, Delirium, ended. In fact, I read review after review saying how the ending this time is an even bigger shock, except I hate to sound jaded, but I saw it coming. I really don't see any other way this book could have ended. And it does set the final book, Requiem, up perfectly for things to sort themselves out.

Going back to the fact this read so quickly, I wanted so much more from it. I really enjoyed Lena's time in the wild, and only wish there was more. I wish there was a better bridge between the "then" and "now" chapters, to know exactly what happened to get Lena to the "now" point. And I think if the book was longer a lot of this could have been in there. And I realize this is a YA book, but there are longer YA books, and it's too bad this was one of them.

I do feel like this review is full of rants, but I really did enjoy this. You couldn't help but feel Lena's suffering as she realizes everything she left behind in her previous life. And while those may not have been the books happiest parts, they were some of my favorite moments to read. I do have Requiem already, and while part of me wants to pick it up now, I plan on waiting a bit to draw things out a little longer.

4/5

Today I'm linking up with Blonde Undercover Blonde for Book Club Friday!