From the Publisher
[A] ... story and character development that can be enjoyed by fans of dystopia whether or not they’ve read the first installment.
—Kirkus Reviews
The political machinations of the previous book are set aside in favor of an adventure story that sets the stage for the final volume in this original dystopian trilogy.
—Booklist Online
Readers who liked the breakneck pacing of the first book will not be disappointed in this one. The action never flags, leaving little time for character development or introspection, which just might appeal to reluctant readers. ... Krumwiede has done a masterful job of creating and sustaining suspense.
—School Library Journal
Readers who like fantasy, and especially those who were fans of the first novel, will enjoy this one. The end wraps up nicely with a moment of peace, but it is clear that war is on the horizon for Taemon and his people.
—VOYA
DECEMBER 2013 - AudioFile
This follow-up to THE FREAKLING finds the city of Deliverance in upheaval. Taemon is the only citizen left with Psi—telekinetic ability. Nick Podehl’s pace begins slowly as he delivers Taemon’s guilt-ridden monologues, but the pace picks up as Taemon frantically searches for family members who are in asylums. Podehl delivers the ramblings of Taemon’s Ma in a chilling monotone and changes to spot-on exasperation at Taemon’s shameless use of Psi. The story’s frenetic pacing peaks as the characters reach a thrilling cliff-hanger ending. M.F.T. © AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine
Kirkus Reviews
2013-09-15
This sequel to Freakling (2012) offers a solid story and character development that can be enjoyed by fans of dystopia whether or not they've read the first installment. Thirteen-year-old Taemon is tormented by guilt, knowing he is responsible for the loss of psi--or telekinetic ability--among his people. His guilt is compounded when he discovers he alone still possesses psi. When Taemon discovers his missing mother, now in a fragile and untrustworthy mental state, she hints that his father has been taken to the Republik, a land that exists over an impassable mountain range. Armed with this tenuous knowledge, Taemon undertakes a dangerous journey to save his father. Joining him is Amma, a wonderfully strong friend on whom Taemon must rely heavily, both figuratively and literally. While some of the events of the book feel a bit convenient and the conflict is resolved too quickly and easily, these are minor quibbles with a story that has solid worldbuilding and a satisfying conclusion. The main weakness of this book is Krumwiede's reliance on old tropes: While Taemon and Amma are both described as having dark eyes and hair and light brown skin, the book's villains are described as dark-complexioned. Isn't it time to retire this stereotype? All in all, though, a better-than-average addition to the plethora of dystopias being published today. (Dystopian adventure. 10-14)
