Monday, August 27, 2012

Book Review: Swipe by Evan Angler


Enter the world of Logan Langley- a time in the future, the specifics of which are not revealed, but much has changed.  He is 13 years old and about to receive the "Mark"  (Read- mark of the beast of Revelation) There is, however a conflict.  His sister, many years ago went to receive the mark and never returned.  Additionally, Logan has the strange feeling that he's being watched and followed.  Along with his new, more sophisticated friend from the capitol of the new nation, Evan will seek to figure out what in the world is going on- before its too late. 

Ok, so I'm not a fiction reader much at all.  Honestly, i read for information.  I watch television for pleasure! That's not even entirely true, because I DO enjoy reading for information.  Anyway, I got this book from Book Sneeze on a whim, having been a fan of the "Left Behind" series years ago.  And what i found when i added this ebook to my ipod was quite a page turner.  In the genre of apocalyptic dystopia, this book is unique and inspired.   I have to say, i was quite surprised as it wasn't what I was expecting.  It seems secular in its approach- Christ was not mentioned at all, you'd never know it was based on a Biblical future event at all.  The futuristic elements were cool and mostly pretty believable, though a bit Cliche.  (nano ink, nano-this, nano-that) I really enjoyed reading this as an ebook in particular, as the couple times when i forgot who a character was, i was able to search the name and immediately come up with the backstory, where as with a regular in-hand book, i would have looked, and looked and eventually just given up. 

Now, if you are like me, you will tend to get all cerebral and point out all the inconsistancies and microscopic flaws in the story, the semi-believable characters, the odd scenarios, but I found if i just kicked back and allowed myself to believe the story as it rolled out before me, I really really enjoyed it.  It took me a while to get to reading it, but only about 2 days in between family obligations and late nights up reading to finish it.   I read it and EAGERLY awaited the sequel to come out.  I am giving this book a full 5 stars, not because it is perfect, but because it was entertaining and succeeded in holding my very fleeting attention, AND because I was so eager to get ahold of the sequel.  This book is marketed toward middle school age kids, but I really enjoyed it.  I think its range is quite wide, in appeal.  I have no hesitation recommending "Swipe" to readers ages 11 or so on up. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”