Book Review: Settling by Shelley Workinger

At the beginning of the summer, Clio Kaid was one of a hundred teens brought to a secret Army installation. But it was no ordinary camp and they weren’t ordinary kids… Picking up where “Solid” left off, Clio and her friends realize that they aren’t ready to go home; they’re determined to stay on campus and continue their journey of self- discovery. But someone doesn’t feel the same way and will do anything to drive them away – even kill. Friendships will be tested, abilities will evolve, and more secrets will come out as the teens race to stop the killer before he sets his sights on one of them. (Goodreads)

BOOK SPECS:

Number of pages: 252

Format: E-book

Genre: YA Romance, Science Fiction, Mystery

Tropes: Secretive Laboratory or Base, Mad Scientist, Humans with Superpowers

SHORT REVIEW:

Action, betrayal, a kissing scene that will melt your heart, and scenes that will make you cry - Workinger has definitely stepped up a gear with this one. 

HEART RATE:

SMUT SCORE:

Buy it on Amazon

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FULL REVIEW:

Plot

A little like New Moon in the Twilight Saga, Settling is where crap hits the fan. So there is a lot of inner chatter and events at the start of this novel that will only become relevant and make sense later in the story. Clio, our female lead, is also largely responsible for all the mishaps. At times you will want to shake her and ask: "what the hell are you doing?"

Unlike the first book, the villain and storyline are a lot more convincing and consistent, and the ending gives you anything but closure, which makes you not only expect a third book but also want it.

The result? Even though it took me awhile to get into it - and Clio annoyed me immensely with her stupidity - by the end, I was genuinely sorry for the girl and couldn't wait to find out what happens in the third book.

Characters

While you see the return of all the original characters you fell in love with, you will be introduced to a different side of them; to the point that the ones you didn't like in Solid will become your favourites in Settling. Not to mention the newbies, including a love triangle. I actually felt quite guilty for not staying loyal to the good guy. The new hottie definitely rocked my boat.

Smut and Romance Score

There is plenty of romance and a super kissing scene, but no hot smut.

Writing

The story starts really slow, reintroducing characters and important events that happened in the first book. Although this is great for anyone who picks Settling before reading Solid, it slows everything right down for anyone who has read the first book already, and the new plot doesn't really kick in until you are almost half way through the book. But once it does... You can't put it down. 

OUT OF CURIOSITY: 

Keep your eyes open for all the music quoted in this book. There are some awesome recommendations for songs and artists! 

Buy 'Settling' on Amazon